The Art of Aging in Place: Remodeling Tips for a Forever Home Jul 10, 2025

Embarking on a remodeling project to transform your home into a forever sanctuary can seem daunting, but with thoughtful planning and expert guidance, it becomes an accessible and rewarding experience. Let's explore some of the key elements to consider when remodeling your home with aging in place in mind.

Firstly, consider accessibility. Ensuring easy access throughout your home is paramount. This includes things like wider doorways and hallways, which can accommodate wheelchairs or walkers. These adjustments offer ease of movement and greater independence. In kitchens and bathrooms, installing lever-style handles for doors and faucets can make a significant difference, offering a practical solution for those with limited hand strength or dexterity.

Another critical aspect is the bathroom design. Bathrooms are often highlights in any remodeling project because they're used frequently and have high potential for accidents. Incorporating walk-in showers with a low or zero threshold reduces the risk of tripping. Adding sturdy grab bars near the toilet and shower areas provides additional safety and stability. Anti-slip flooring can also reduce the risk of slips and falls, making the bathroom a safer space for everyone.

Lighting plays an essential role in any remodeling endeavor. As we age, our eyesight may change, necessitating modifications to home lighting. Ample natural light is ideal, so maximizing window space or adding skylights can enhance the feel of a room. However, ensuring there is adequate artificial lighting in common areas, staircases, and task-specific zones like kitchens can help prevent accidents and create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Kitchens should also be designed with aging in place features in mind. Consider lowering counters or creating varied counter heights to ease food preparation for someone seated or of shorter stature. Pull-out shelves in cabinets and drawers can make accessing items far easier than traditional setups. Additionally, arranging your kitchen layout to minimize bending and reaching can enhance usability and comfort.

Home technology can further support aging in place remodeling. Installing smart home systems, like security sensors and remote lighting controls, adds layers of convenience and safety. These systems can be customized to fit the needs and preferences of the homeowner, providing peace of mind through automatic lights, doorbells, and cameras that can be managed from anywhere.

Finally, embrace flexibility in your design plans. Future-proofing your home means considering changes you haven't yet encountered, such as alternative uses for existing rooms, which can provide adaptable living options. Flexible spaces ensure your home can evolve with you, accommodating guests, caregivers, or family members.

In conclusion, the art of aging in place is about creating a harmonious blend of safety, accessibility, and style. At Collins Contracting, we aim to make this journey seamless, offering expert advice to help construct a forever home tailored to your needs and preferences. Our commitment is to ensure that your home remains not just a shelter but a sanctuary where you can live comfortably and confidently, regardless of age or ability. If you are contemplating a remodeling project to embrace aging in place, we invite you to explore the possibilities with us. Your future-ready forever home is just a plan away.