Q. My wife and I are in our late 70s and live alone. Although I would be lying if I said that we havenāt felt our age encroach upon our lifestyle in recent years, we are rather independent. We live in a two-story home that only has a half bath on the main level. While we can navigate the stairs, we try to avoid going up and down multiple times in the day. We are considering a remodel of our downstairs to create a master bedroom on the main level. Before we undergo such a transformation, I wanted to get your advice on what we should consider so that our home is āsenior-friendly.ā We want it to be a place for us and donāt want to diminish the home value should we decide to move or our kids sell the home after we pass. What would you suggest?
A. You are wise to consider a home remodel that would give you a master suite on the main floor. Not only will this allow you and your wife to age-in-place, but it will also increase your home value.
Several suggestions are floating around in my head that will allow you to remain safe and independent in your own home while also making the remodel appealing to buyers in the future. I would start by suggesting you install a walk-in shower in the bathroom. Ensure that thereās plenty of space for a shower chair, or incorporate a built-in bench. Install a hand-held showerhead and grab bars as appropriate. Look for grab bars that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Consider installing a high rise toilet. High rise toilets are typically two to four inches taller than your average toilet. This makes it easier for older adults with limited mobility to sit down and stand back up. Before installing, ensure there is adequate space to navigate the bathroom and open doors or cabinets.
Today, many master bathrooms include comfort height vanities. Comfort height vanities match the height of kitchen countertops. It reduces the need to bend or stoop as much while using the sink.
Ensure both the bathroom and bedroom have adequate lighting. Although falls can happen on any surface at any time, itās common for older adults to experience a fall while on their way to the bathroom in the middle of the night. Think about the types of lighting that will be in the bathroom. Include soft lighting, such as recessed lighting above the walk-in shower. I would also suggest strategically placing motion-sensor nightlights along the pathway to the bathroom.
Think about ways you could incorporate smart home technology. Smart home outlets or light switches allow you to use your voice to turn lights on or off. Smart speakers could be utilized to call for help if thereās an emergency, especially if you or your wife falls while in the bathroom. There are even digital showerheads that illuminate red when the water temperature is too hot, so you can avoid scalding your skin.
Finally, if you donāt have laundry access on the main level, I would highly consider moving your laundry during your remodel. It would be easier to do this now, while the plumbing is exposed, instead of down the road.
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