Wednesday, September 28, 2016

Is Your Home Ready for Your Changing Family's Needs?

Last month the Richmond Times-Dispatch reported on the fastest-growing segment in the residential remodeling industry - aging in place. (You can read the the article here.) 
 
So what is "aging in place"? The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines it as "the ability to live in one's own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level."
 
As baby boomers (those born between 1946 and 1964) plan for retirement, many are also planning for how they can stay in their homes as they age. In fact, a recent survey conducted by the AARP found that 84% would like to stay in their current homes during retirement. 
 
At the same time, we are also seeing more and more Americans (60.6 million per the most recent U.S. Census Bureau survey) are becoming part of the "sandwich generation" with three or more generations living under one roof. Even the first family are members of the sandwich generation, as Michelle Obama's mother, Marian Robinson, has lived in the White House with her daughter's family since 2009.
 
These families are also looking at how their homes can better accommodate both young children and aging adults by finding solutions for all generations to live under one roof by creating additional living space through an addition, repurposing a garage or basement, or investing in "granny pods," micro-units with their own kitchen and bathrooms that are constructed separately from the main house. 
 
Regardless, many of the same features that help aging adults remain in their homes are also beneficial to young children. For example, handles on doors or sinks in place of knobs are equally helpful to seniors with arthritis and toddlers who are just learning fine motor skills.
 
Rob Wright is a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) and Universal Design Certified Professional (UDCP). These certifications enable him to design accessible spaces for all people, including those who wish to age in place, growing and mutli-generational families, and individuals with special needs.
 
CCI is the premier remodeling company for helping you create the home that best accommodate your family in Richmond. Give us a call or send us an email today and we can provide a free consultation on the project that interests you.