If you’re planning to stay in your home as you age, it’s wise to make adjustments accordingly. This is particularly true of your kitchen, where high temperatures, sharp objects, and movement can all pose dangers. The kitchen remodeling tips below will help you create a safe environment where you can cook. You won’t have to worry about unnecessary dangers, and you’ll be glad you stayed in your beloved home.

Kitchen Remodeling Projects for Aging in Place

1. Adjust Heights

While the current height of your stove, sink, and counters may be ideal, you should plan ahead for the possibility of a walker or wheelchair. Lower counters also allow you to sit if you don’t want to stand during food preparation. Install lower cabinets or keep the items you use most often on the bottom shelves.

2. Change Cabinet Handles

Small handles that require fine motor skills can become more difficult to use as your movements become less precise. Your kitchen remodeling contractor can help you pick handles that are large and D-shaped for easy use.  

3. Replace the Flooring

You may love having tile or hardwood in your kitchen, but as you age, those surfaces can pose hazards. Covering the current floor with low-pile carpet will cushion your joints and reduce the likelihood of slipping. If you like the material you have too much to replace it, consider coating it with a high-grip texture to provide the traction you need.

4. Add More Lighting

Working in dim conditions is a sure way to misread labels, mishandle knives, or overlook a slick spot on the floor. Ideally, the kitchen should have ample natural light, complemented with recessed and track lighting. If there are any dark spots, address them with additional track lights so that every task area is fully illuminated.

For a kitchen remodeling contractor that can take you from design to the final touches, work with Valley Design Center in Manhattan’s Midtown East. For over two decades, they’ve provided a full suite of home improvement services to New York City residents. All of their work is done by their contractors, and they’re a certified Kraftmaid® and Toto® dealer. To learn how they can help you age in place, call (212) 832-4200. You can also learn more about the materials they carry online.