An increasingly common trend is for elderly parents to move in with their adult children as they get older. However, many people don’t have the right home design to accommodate their elderly parents. Here are a few remodeling ideas that can help make your home more senior-friendly.

Top 3 Home Design Elements for Seniors

1. Non-Slip Flooring

Slips and falls are a serious risk for seniors, so replace the flooring in high-risk areas such as entryways and bathrooms with non-slip materials. Steps can be made safer with nonskid treads and contrast strips that increase visibility. Be mindful of outdoor walking surfaces as well. Repairing sidewalk cracks could prevent an accident.

2. Improved Lighting

Eyesight tends to diminish with age, which can make it harder to see obstacles and increase the risk of a fall. Look for ways to increase lighting throughout the house, especially in darker rooms and hallways. While some areas may simply benefit from higher wattage bulbs, other rooms may be better served by a skylight installation or point lighting. Look into installing night lights and motion sensor lights as well.

3. Grab Bars

Senior citizens often benefit from grab bars to help them stand up and navigate stairs. Grab bars are a must in the bathroom, particularly near the toilet or in the shower. Handrails on both sides of a stairway must be sturdy enough to support the full weight of your loved one if needed.

If you need help updating your home design for seniors, contact R. Clary Builders. Providing renovation and construction services to Oahu, HI, for over 30 years, their team has earned an A+ Better Business Bureau® rating and maintains membership in the NAHB and Building Industry Association of Hawaii to give you confidence in their work. To learn more about their services, visit them online, or call (808) 263-4463 to request a free estimate.