What is aging in place?

As you age, it's not uncommon to contemplate where you want to live as you get older. Depending on your health needs, there are several options available, from luxury retirement to independent or assisted living communities. But what if you want to stay in your own home? With the proper accommodations, staying in your own home, or aging in place, can be achieved.

What does aging in place require?
Most homes are constructed to meet minimum requirements for things like entry access (typically stairs), door width, hallway width, counter height, the height of knobs, door locks, etc. A standard is set that accommodates the typical able-bodied adult. But, as you age, your body may start to experience limitations. Maybe you can't climb those stairs as easily, maybe reaching the top shelf in the kitchen is difficult, or perhaps you no longer have the finger strength to open up kitchen or bathroom cabinets. The list goes on depending on your individual needs.

Aging in place takes a person's physical limitations into account for how a space is designed. When aging in place standards are used, you'll see adaptations like a ramp to the front door instead of steps, pull handles on cabinets instead of finger grooves, shower and bathtub modifications to provide greater safety, etc.

If you suspect you'll want to stay in your own home as you age, it's best to start that planning early. Working with an aging in place specialist can help you look at each room in your home with fresh eyes. He or she will be able to address your specific concerns and also make suggestions for needs you might not know to anticipate.

At Fort Rock Construction, we are certified aging in place experts. We've been helping homeowners in the Eugene, Springfield and Cottage Grove area remodel their homes since 2001. Please give us a call to schedule a consultation for your home. 541-767-1611