BABY BOOMERS/AGING IN PLACE MOVEMENT
There are between 8,000 - 10,000 Baby Boomers reaching age 65 every week in North America with most are either retired or nearing their retirement. ‘Boomers’ say they want to ‘age in place'. In other words, they want to stay in their homes as long as they can or forever.
‘Aging in Place’, Universal Design’, ‘Age Friendly‘: today’s ‘Boomers’ are quite interested in these new buzz words.
UNIVERSAL DESIGN
The first thing to understand is there’s no such thing as one-size-fits-all design for aging in place. We’re all unique.
Universal design goes far beyond installing ramps and grab bars while remaining largely invisible to the casual observer. In fact, applying universal design concepts such as choosing lever handles instead of doorknobs for ease or wider door and hallways results in making a house feel more spacious.
AGING IN PLACE MOVEMENT
The ability to remain in one’s home safely, independently and comfortably, regardless of age or ability level throughout one’s changing lifetime.
The Aging in Place movement is a growing trend in the housing industry especially as we approach retirement age. Active adults desire to remain in their homes and while they want their homes to remain comfortable and look good, they don’t want to be constrained by maintenance and repairs or the high cost of up-keep.
MODIFY & UPGRADE YOUR HOME
Most likely you will probably need to modify your living spaces as you mature to increase access, function and safety. It is always easier to modify your home in advance than during a crisis.
Providing design solutions or modifications to the home does not need to be obvious. Guests might just be impressed with the ease of accessibility, open concept or the natural light thru your home, clueless to the full scope of accessible features.
CONSULTATION & MODIFY
Our goal is to modify a home that works for the resident now, but is able to support them as they gracefully age. In addition to make the home safe, it’s also important to look for ways to reduce the amount of home maintenance and expense.
Before home modifications can be made, assessment of the home needs to be taken. We have created a Home Modification Checklist to aid in identifying ways to modify for a safer and comfortable home for years to come.
CERTIFIED AGING IN PLACE SPECIALIST
The Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) program was introduced teaching individuals across a variety of fields how to best serve those looking to age in place. They have the knowledge and experience to use smart design solutions to make your home more accessible and easy to navigate.
As a graduate of the Certified Aging in Place Specialist ‘CAPS’ course, Anni will recommend specific design solutions and choices to fit your new lifestyle/abilities or special needs. Working with a CAPS designer means having a knowledgeable professional walking you through home modification choices that can allow you to safely and comfortably age in place.