Safety Concerns for Aging in Place

Multigenerational living has become a common way of life for many local families. And as homes evolve over generations, the needs of ohana change, too. When designing spaces for aging residents, safety and accessibility are primary concerns. The team at Graham Builders specializes in aging-in-place builds and renovations that prioritize comfort and safety without sacrificing design. With certified aging-in-place specialists (CAPS) on staff, Graham Builders is poised to accommodate the unique needs of multigenerational households.

“CAPS professionals have specific training in understanding the physical and cognitive changes that occur with aging, and how these changes can impact a person’s ability to live independently at home,” says Ryan Graham, vice president at Graham Builders. “They are also well-versed in universal design principles and accessibility standards.”

Here, Graham shares important areas of focus for safety and comfort within the home, and modifications that homeowners can make to improve the quality of life for aging family members.

1. Stairs and Entryway
Stairs can pose a significant risk for older adults, especially those who may use canes or wheelchairs for additional support. To minimize the risk of injury, ramps or chairlifts can be installed if homes have steps leading to the main entrance, or stairs that transition between floor levels. Adding sturdy handrails on both sides of staircases can also provide support. “If possible, create a no-step entrance to the home to accommodate mobility aids like wheelchairs or walkers,” Graham mentions.

2. Bathrooms
The bathroom is one of the most critical areas to address for aging-in-place renovations. Wet floors and slippery surfaces can become falling hazards for aging residents —installing non-slip flooring and grab bars both in the shower and near the toilet are essential bathroom upgrades. Bathtub and shower accessibility can also become a challenge, making walk-in showers or tubs with built-in seats great options to consider. Even the height of a toilet seat can become a safety hazard for residents, requiring additional thought and support. “A standard toilet may be too low for seniors with mobility issues. Installing an elevated or comfort-height toilet can make it easier to use,” Graham explains.

3. Kitchens
The kitchen is another important area to retrofit for aging in place. Counter heights and accessible storage are two of the most common upgrades — adjusting countertops to accommodate a comfortable level for meal prep and cooking can allow residents better use of counter space in both standing and seated positions. Accessible storage and pantry spaces are also important when preparing meals, making cabinets with pull-out shelves and drawers an ideal kitchen upgrade.

4. Bedrooms
The bedroom should be a safe and comfortable sanctuary where residents can feel at ease. Getting in and out of bed can become challenging with age, so selecting a bed at an appropriate height to allow for better access to get in and out is key. Nightstands can also become helpful storage areas for eyeglasses, medications and phones in case of emergencies.

5. Hallways, Doorways and Flooring
Standard-width hallways and doorways can be quite narrow, making passage difficult for residents using wheelchairs or walkers. Widening doorways and hallways can make a tremendous difference, in addition to keeping those pathways clutter-free to prevent tripping hazards. That also extends to flooring selections, as loose rugs and slippery floors can be dangerous. “Choose flooring materials that are slip-resistant, such as non-slip tiles, carpet with low pile, or cork flooring,” Graham says.

6. Lighting and Electrical
Insufficient lighting can lead to accidents — adequate lighting throughout the home is of the utmost importance, particularly in areas such as stairs, hallways and entrances. Graham suggests utilizing different types of lighting such as ambient, task, and accent to provide targeted lighting in key areas for enhanced visibility and minimized risk for accidents. He also recommends checking for outdated electrical systems and ensuring that there are working smoke detectors and fire extinguishers throughout the home.

For more insights on aging-in-place options for your family, check out this story on Weighing the Benefits of Aging in Place or head to Graham Builders’ website to view aging-in-place projects.