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Aging in Place, or Universal Design, means living in one’s home independently regardless of age or ability.  During the design phase of construction, Living Stone carefully integrates universal design elements to suit the needs of the client. 

89% of people 50+ wish to remain in their own homes indefinitely (AARP)
68% of remodelers already perform aging-in-place remodeling (NAHB).
Over half of all 55+ households rate their current home a 9 or 10 out of 10 (American
Housing Survey).
The aging population is the number two issue to affect the remodeling industry over the
next five years, only behind the availability of skilled labor (NAHB).
Remodelers report that the most requested aging-in-place features include: grab bars, higher
toilets, curbless showers, wider doorways, ramps or lower-thresholds, and task lighting.

What should my home contain if I want to age in place?

  • A master bedroom and bath on the first floor.
  • A low or no-threshold entrance to the home with an overhang.
  • Lever-style door handles.
  • No change in levels on the main floor.
  • Bright lighting in all areas, especially places like stairways.
  • A low-maintenance exterior.
  • Non-slip flooring at the main entryway.
  • An open floor plan, especially in the kitchen/dining area.
  • Handrails at all steps.

Alexandra Bath

What are some techniques CAPS-trained professionals use?

  • Lighting from multiple directions – reduces glare and shadows.
  • Light sockets with more than one bulb – redundancy in case one bulb burns out.
  • Stacking closets for a future elevator shaft.
  • Contrasting colors for depth perception – use a different color counter (or edging around the
    counter) than the floor, staining the edge of the stairs a darker color than the rest of the
    steps.
  • Convenience shelf at an entry way to place your grocery bag while getting your keys.

Please contact Living Stone for more information about integrating universal design in your new home or renovation!