If you’re nearing retirement age, you’ve likely started thinking about where you plan to live out your golden years. Many people wish to age in place and remain in their homes for as long as possible. This can prevent having to move in with a relative, or into a nursing home or other senior living facility. However, if your current home isn’t ideal for aging in place, building a custom home that’s designed to meet your needs may be a better option. 

How to Build Your Retirement Home

Understand Universal Design

When thinking about your new dream home, you likely have a vision of the layout and materials. However, as you start working with the builder, you might hear about the concept of universal design. 

This is a design concept adopted by the National Association of Home Builders® that focuses on building homes that are accessible and usable by all people, regardless of need and ability. A custom home designed using these principles won’t need modifications or adaptations, and may only require minor changes as your needs and abilities change. 

This type of home will have plenty of space to move around—even if you have a wheelchair. It also has easy entrances and exits, making everyday tasks easier and safer to perform. 

Considerations for the Home

Building a custom home based on the universal design principles doesn’t mean you can’t have a stylish and comfortable home. Many of the features are subtle, and at first glance, you may not even notice that the home was designed for accessibility. 

Some of the features to consider for your new home include:

• Single Story & Open Floor Plan: Keeping all of the living spaces on one story eliminates the risk of stair-related injuries, while an open floor plan provides plenty of room for mobility and clear sight lines. 
• No-Step Entrances: For safe entry and exit from the home, at least one entry should be a no-step entry. This is especially true if residents have walkers, wheelchairs, or other mobility devices.
• Wide Hallways & Doorways: To accommodate wheelchairs—even if you don’t currently need one—hallways should be at least 36 inches wide, and doorways should measure 32 inches in width.
• Safe Bathrooms: Installing no-slip flooring, a walk-in tub, a shower with seating, and a taller toilet can keep the bathroom safer as you age. 

For help designing a custom home that allows you to stay safe and healthy in your retirement years, contact 5th Avenue Construction in Naperville, IL. With experience in designing homes that meet universal design requirements, they’ll bring your vision to life and create the luxurious and comfortable home of your dreams. To view past projects, visit their website. Call (331) 255-7500 to schedule a consultation.