Weekly Design Inspiration: Aging in Place
At some point in our lives, we decide if we want our houses to be our forever home. Many of us have so many memories in our homes, live near friends and family, or love the neighborhood we are in. If we want to grow old in our homes, otherwise known as Aging in Place, we can make small or large design changes to better suit our needs. Anything from handles and faucets, to doors and walls, can make a huge difference in ease of use.
Change up the Hardware
One of the easier swaps to make is to change the handles on your cabinetry. Although we love all forms of handles, the truth is that small knobs and delicate hardware can be difficult to grasp, especially for those with arthritis. You can add oversized pulls to pantry and drawer cabinets for a contemporary look or add D-pulls for a modern farmhouse vibe.
Source: Tumblr
Source: Annora
Source: Battle Creek Hardware
In my Back Pocket (Door)
Not only are pocket and barn doors attractive and space savers, but they are practical options for those of us who need mobility assistance. Additionally, ensure that the door has a large or oversized pull that is easy to grasp. Granted, making the change from a hinged door to a pocket door could be more expensive, but it’s the best solution if the space is tight. Bathrooms can especially benefit from a pocket door, since they won't swing into the hallway or bathroom, compromising an already small space.
Source: Chris Loves Julia
Source: RayDoor
All the Single Faucets
Another project could be to install single-lever faucets in your kitchen and bathrooms. The lever can easily be adjusted with one hand, and is a great option for all mobility levels. Also consider investing in a touch-sensitive faucet, requiring even less contact. For bonus points, add on a matching soap dispenser! They are usually fairly easy to work while simultaneously adding to the finished look of your home.
Source: Better Homes and Garden
Design Tip: For those of us who are visually impaired, lighting is everything. Try to reduce glare and invest in dimmers. A lot of lighting programs and fixtures can be controlled from your phone, adding to their ease of use.
