Aging in Place Phoenix

Do you want to live your life independently, regardless of age or physical ability?

You’re not alone.

The majority of aging adults 50 and older want to stay in their homes as long as possible. Whether out of preference or necessity you may need to remodel your home to fit your changing needs.

If you’ve lived in the same home for years, you don’t have to relocate for comfort and safety. Your home could be modified and made easily accessible for any age and ability.

Below are just a few examples of modifications that can be made to create a more senior friendly home, while also increasing the homes value.

MAKING THE KITCHEN ACCESSIBLE FOR THE ELDERLY OR WHEELCHAIR BOUND

• Cabinet shelving can be lowered for easier access to those in a chair or wheelchair
• Pantry shelving can be adjustable so shelved items sit at eye level.
• To prevent lifting heavy pots and pans into the oven and microwave, the appliances can be placed on a lower cabinet for easier and safer access.

A SENIOR-FRIENDLY BATHROOM

• Walls may need an update to become strong enough for weight-supporting grab bars at the toilet and shower/bathtub
• For those in a wheelchair, you should have at least 5ft of space to turn easily
• The doorway to your bathroom may need to be widened from the traditional 24 inches to accommodate a wheelchair entry
• Toilet height may need adjustment to a lower sitting toilet
• A curbless shower is great, not only for those in a chair, but prevents the possibility of slipping when stepping into the shower
• A sink vanity with countertop is great for leg space beneath the counter.

View Gainey Flooring Bathroom Projects for Aging in Place

Including grab bars, handheld shower heads for easy accessibility, shower benches, and curbless entry for the disabled.

HIRING A CERTIFIED AGING IN PLACE CONTRACTOR IN PHOENIX

The National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) has developed an educational program that trains and educates contractors to become Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists, commonly referred to as CAPS.

The Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists are educated in the unique needs that aging citizens fast. They are knowledgeable about home modifications and remodeling projects that offer solutions to common accessibility problems you may face.

The Benefits of Hiring a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist

They will tour your home and offer home modification recommendations so you can live independently in the home for years to come.

Specialists will develop a remodeling plan based on the safety and physical abilities needs of the individual or household.

CAPS remodelers are educated on building codes and standards, including time and cost required for modification projects.

It’s important to understand that your CAPS remodeler is not an Occupational Therapist (OT), or health care professional. Think of them as a hired contractor; paid by the hour or on a by project basis.

What to Expect in an Aging in Place Consultation

• Describe methods for performing a needs assessment to identify and prioritize the needs, wants and wishes of the Aging in Place client
• Recommend specific design solutions for the Aging in Place client
• Estimate and schedule the Aging in Place project while regarding special considerations
• Identify considerations for executing the job while the client is in residence