Preparing your Home for the Future: When to Start Planning for Aging-in-Place

Aging in place—living in your home safely and comfortably through your lifetime—requires thoughtful planning and proactive decision-making. But when is the right time to begin this journey? Here’s why early planning is essential to ensure you’re set up for living in your forever home forever.

Why Start Early?

• Good Design is Always in Style: Making changes now can improve the functionality of your home, making it more useable and enjoyable for you, your family and visitors.

• Proactive Changes Are Easier: Making modifications now allows you to plan without the pressure of an immediate need. This ensures that decisions are well-considered and align with your lifestyle and preferences.

• Financial Planning: Renovations and upgrades can be costly. Planning early allows you to budget for these changes over time, avoiding financial strain or last-minute expenses.

• Increased Home Value: Investing in universal design features not only benefits you but can also enhance your home’s market value by appealing to a broader range of buyers.
  

Steps to Establish a Home for Aging-in-Place

Assess the Current Functionality of Your Home

• Evaluate your home for areas that are currently inefficient or that could become challenging, such as stairs, narrow doorways, or tight spaces.

• Consider whether your home supports your lifestyle and any current or future needs.

• If you are unsure of what areas to assess or what to look for, consider reaching out to an interior designer/aging-in-place specialist to conduct a comprehensive functional home assessment.

Decide Between Small Updates or Remodeling

• Make small upgrades if your home requires minimal adjustments to improve functionality (e.g., changing hardware to lever handles or installing pull-out shelves).

• Consider remodeling one or several rooms if significant structural changes are needed, such as creating an open floor plan, adding space, or designing an accessible bathroom.

Plan for the Investment in Your Home

• Decide which modifications are immediate priorities and which can be phased in over time.

• Save or allocate funds for both immediate and future projects.

Partner with the Right Professionals

• Consult an interior designer experienced in universal design/accessible design to maintain aesthetics while improving functionality.

• Collaborate with an architect and/or contractor for structural changes and remodeling projects.

• Seek out professionals with credentials as a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) to ensure the home meets accessibility and safety standards.

Key Areas to Focus On

• Entrances and Exits: Ensure there is at least one zero-step entry into the home.

• Bathroom: Install a curbless shower, remove barriers for maneuverability, and use non-slip flooring.

• Kitchen: Consider wider walkways, roll-under counters, accessible appliances, and pull-out drawers.

• Lighting: Increase natural light and add task lighting in key areas for higher visibility and safety.
  

Start Now, Live Better Later

Planning your aging-in-place home doesn’t mean sacrificing style or comfort. By starting early, you can create a space that adapts with you, allowing you to live independently and safely for years to come. By partnering with an interior designer, you can incorporate accessible features without compromising on your design aesthetic. Don’t wait for life’s challenges to dictate your choices—take control and design your forever home today.

Are you ready to start planning? Contact Cadence Interiors for expert guidance and personalized solutions for your aging-in-place journey. Schedule your complimentary inquiry call today.

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