Home Design For Seniors and Retirees

As the retirement age continues to rise, more and more people are searching for homes that will suit their needs. They want to remain in their family home and reap the rewards of their hard work.

It is essential for them to feel secure and at home in their new homes. Architects have now become certified as Aging-in-Place specialists.

1. Large windows or balconies

Homes designed for seniors and retirees typically feature large windows or balconies to bring natural light in and allow residents to connect with nature. Studies have demonstrated that exposure to natural light and views of the outdoors can have beneficial effects on health outcomes such as sleep quality, blood pressure, and mood.

Selecting wide, low-sill windows for natural lighting in a space is an effective way to bring the outdoors in. Bedrooms especially benefit from these expansive windows as they filter in plenty of filtered sunlight for restful sleep.

The best part is that these windows are also easy to operate. Pella recently released their Easy-Slide Operator, a hardware solution designed to make opening and closing casement or awning windows simpler than ever before.

2. Light and airy

Light colors and natural elements, combined with a few furniture pieces and accessories, create the ideal atmosphere that’s open, airy, and relaxed.

One way to create a light atmosphere in your home is by painting the walls a lighter shade. For even lighter effects, opt for muted pastels or subtly patterned wallpaper.

Another way to create a light and airy space is by rearrange furniture. Doing this maximizes floor space while eliminating bulky items.

As people age, they often require more assistance with walking and other daily tasks. That is why designing a home that is accessible and intuitive has become increasingly important for seniors and retirees.

3. Comfortable lounging spaces

When designing a home for seniors and retirees, it’s essential to include comfortable lounging spaces. This includes an inviting living room and dining area that facilitates easy feeding. Furthermore, having an area for them to unwind allows them to socialize with family members and friends in comfort.

When shopping for furniture, opt for the biggest and most supportive pieces you can find. Couches with high, sturdy armrests so they can be lean against without tipping over are ideal; furniture designed with comfort in mind will save you from costly repairs or replacements down the line. Having proper furniture in place makes all the difference for older adults with mobility issues; having it improves their quality of life while making daily tasks much simpler to manage.

4. Easy access to bathrooms

A secure, functional bathroom is an integral element of home design. Not only does it aid seniors in maintaining their independence, but it also safeguards their wellbeing.

Seniors need easy access to their bathrooms as they age, and there are many ways to make them more user friendly. Simple upgrades can reduce the risk of falls, boost mobility and enable seniors to remain independent at home for extended periods.

A sink with storage beneath it is an ideal option, as is a wall-mounted sink that allows wheelchair access. Furthermore, opt for lever handles instead of knobs on cabinets and doors to make opening and closing them simpler for older adults.

5. Easy maintenance

As you grow older, maintaining your home may become increasingly challenging. You may not be able to perform simple tasks like changing lightbulbs or cleaning gutters as easily.

You might have difficulty finding a trustworthy worker to assist with these tasks. This makes keeping your home in good repair difficult and could put your safety at risk.

When looking to move into a new home, opt for one that requires low upkeep and is simple to maintain. Doing so will free you up time to focus on fixing any issues that come your way.