‘Aging in place’ is a term that’s become more recognizable and common over the last year or two as our U.S. population grows older, and many seniors desire to stay in their own homes. As trusted Flower Mound custom home builders, we recognize the changing needs of homeowners and pay attention to the trends in home design. Below we have a few suggestions for kitchen design that makes aging in place easier.
Roll-out shelves and deep drawers are ideal for storage. Even for us “youngsters,” opening a lower cabinet door and reaching to the back can be tough. By storing cookware, blenders, and other items in deep drawers or shelves that pull or roll out, you can easily access items stored in the back.
Think about the smallest details. Many kitchens are designed using knobs on drawers and cabinets rather than pulls, which are much easier to grasp for those with arthritis or other issues. For those who frequently use a wheelchair, be sure there’s ample space to navigate around the kitchen between cabinets, door frames, or an island. In fact, you may want to consider an island that can easily be removed once you grow older.
Locate appliances so they’re easy to use. Even if you’re not a senior yet, it’s a good idea to plan for the future so you won’t have to undergo expensive renovations at a later date. A microwave that’s built-in at counter height is a good idea, as well as a side-by-side refrigerator. Also consider the configuration of your kitchen in terms of where the stove, sink, and fridge are located. Having all of these appliances in close proximity makes it easier to prepare, cook, and clean up without walking back and forth across the kitchen or having to navigate a wheelchair around more than necessary.
It’s no surprise that seniors prefer to stay in the home they love instead of moving to an assisted living facility or family member’s home. Bud Bartley Family of Builders designs custom Flower Mound homes that are as functional as they are beautiful! For comfortable, upscale homes customized to your needs, count on our team of custom green home builders in North Texas.
