Over 3.5 million people aged 50 and older live in North Carolina. Designing safer spaces for the seniors in your life will allow them to live independently and safely and greatly improve their quality of life.
Keep reading to learn more about architectural design for elderly adults.
Bathroom
With these design tips, you can ensure the bathroom is a safer, more convenient place for seniors.
Lever Faucets
Instead of spherical knobs, consider installing lever faucets. Ergonomic faucets are easier to use since older adults don’t have to twist and turn them, which can be quite challenging for them.
Shower-Head Wand
A shower head that can be detached and hand-held makes showering much easier and more comfortable. Adding a bench in the shower is also an excellent, senior-friendly feature. Older adults don’t need to stand taking a shower, which is a huge plus, particularly if they have mobility issues.
Kitchen
Kitchens are the heart of our homes. You can design the kitchen in the following ways to make it easier and safer to navigate for the elderly.
Counter Tops
Opt for a countertop with edges that are of another shade. The difference in color tones will make it easier to spot things. Additionally, countertops should come with rounded edges.
You want to decrease the likelihood of bruises and bumps as your aging parents navigate the kitchen. If your senior family member uses a wheelchair, lower the counter height so they can work while seated.
Accessible Storage
Pull-out drawers, open shelves, intelligent cabinets, and pull-down shelves at a lower height offer hassle-free access to seniors. Your elderly parents won’t need to bend, crouch down, or stretch on their tippy toes to fetch items.
It’s safer for seniors to pull out drawers and grab cookware or spices rather than stepping on a stool to reach a higher cabinet or getting on their hands and knees to remove things from very low cabinets.
Read more: Create the Perfect Kitchen Design.
Flooring
Consider these factors when selecting flooring.
Slip Resistance
You want flooring that provides a non-slip surface for your elderly family member to move around safely. For instance, flooring like anti-skid tiles and rubber offers adequate grip.
Cushioning
In case of a slip or trip accident, the floor needs to be able to reduce the impact of the fall to lessen the likelihood of serious injuries. For example, rubber or cork flooring has better shock absorption than wooden or vinyl.
Begin Your Journey With VinYet
Vinyet Architecture is committed to helping you create a home that is stylish, safe, and custom-made for the older adults in your life. Are you ready to get started? Contact us at our residential architect in Charlotte, NC, today.
