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Bathroom & Kitchen Remodeling Serving Santa Clara Valley • 408.360.9700

Bathroom & Kitchen Remodeling Serving Santa Clara Valley • 408.360.9700

Tag: ADA homes

Planning for Aging in Place from California Bathroom & Kitchen Remodeling Contractors in San Jose

PLAN YOUR HOME MODIFICATIONS FOR AGING-IN-PLACE

RECOMMENDATIONS FROM EXPERIENCED RENOVATION CONTRACTORS

aging in place bathroom design

Prefer to spend your golden years in your own home? Not sure how to make it safe and suitable for aging-in-place? From practical layouts to lifestyle-friendly features, even a few minor updates will hugely enhance the quality of your life. Learn what type of home renovations to consider while planning for aging-in-place.

KEY MODIFICATIONS TO HELP SENIORS STAY LONGER IN THEIR OWN HOMES

While aging in the comfort of your home has many advantages, it also comes with challenges related to access, safety and mobility. When you are planning for aging-in-place, consider your lifestyle, current health and issues that may occur in the future. This will help you decide on suitable renovations to make your home more conducive to aging-in-place.

Whether you are renovating for yourself or helping a senior loved one to continue living at home, here are some enhancements to consider:

Minor modifications in your home:

  • Replace doorknobs with lever-style knobs that are easier to grip and do not need a twisting motion.
  • Replace standard light switches with rocker-type or toggle switches.
  • Tape down or secure the loose ends of your carpets, area rugs and staircase runners.
  • Install slip-resistant flooring materials such as vinyl, linoleum, bamboo or cork.
  • Brighten up dark areas of your home. Consider adding light fixtures with motion or sound-activation features.
  • Widen narrow hallways and doorways that are less than 32 inches wide. If you ever need to use a wheelchair or walker, this modification will be required.
  • If your stairway rails and handles are not sturdy, replace them with more solid ones.

Bathroom remodeling to increase home safety for seniors:

  • Install safety grab bars in your shower stall, tub and toilet areas, where slips and falls are most likely to occur.
  • Consider replacing your existing tub with an easy-access, walk-in version, or get rid of the tub and install a walk-in shower with a seat.
  • Upgrade your vanity to ensure that the countertop is at a convenient height, and storage is easily accessible.

Kitchen renovations for seniors staying at home:

  • Replace your cabinet knobs with handles that offer a better grip.
  • Install drawers in place of cabinets, wherever possible.
  • Change the height of your countertops, if the existing ones are too tall.
  • Place microwaves and other small appliances on countertops for better accessibility.
  • If your existing kitchen faucet has a knob, replace that with a lever-handle.
  • Consider investing in an induction cooktop stove, as it will reduce the chances of accidental burns or injuries.

TRENDY AGING-IN-PLACE MAKEOVERS BY SANTA CLARA VALLEY’S RENOVATION EXPERTS

At California Bathroom & Kitchen Remodelers, we love designing and installing stylish spaces that increase the functionality of your home. Our skilled craftsmen are well-versed with the unique needs of aging adults and offer creative solutions to meet the challenges of aging-in-place and follow ADA compliance guidelines. With clever design ideas and quality workmanship, we make sure that your kitchen and bathroom makeovers are not just practical, but also trendy and beautiful.

Since 1994, we have served homeowners across the Santa Clara Valley, including in San Jose, Willow Glen, Cambrian, Almaden, Santa Clara, Los Gatos and Los Altos Hills, CA. Read these testimonials from past clients, who have experienced our commitment to timelines, budget and customer service.

Call CBKR, your bathroom and kitchen remodeling contractor at 408-360-9700 or contact us online to schedule an in-home consultation. We can discuss and design a variety of adaptability features that best meet your aging-in-place requirements.

Things to Consider for Living in Place & ADA Kitchen & Bath Design

ADA KITCHEN AND BATH DESIGN TO ENABLE LIVING IN PLACE

EXPERT TIPS FOR MAKING YOUR HOME ACCESSIBLE

Adapting your home to accommodate disabilities or age-related physical limitations requires careful thought and planning. Rooms that are generally compact, such as the kitchen and bathroom, must be barrier-free to allow for easy wheelchair access. Appliances and other items of regular use must also be within reach. Before you start your remodeling project, learn about the key considerations that will support living in place for you or your senior family members. A contractor with experience in ADA kitchen and bath design can help ensure your home is safe and comfortable.

KEY ELEMENTS OF ACCESSIBLE KITCHEN AND BATHROOM DESIGN

  • Space planning: Accommodating a walker or wheelchair in your kitchen and bathroom means ensuring there is enough space to maneuver these mobility devices. In the kitchen, for instance, it may involve expanding the traditional triangle placement of the stove, sink and refrigerator to include garbage disposal and the dishwasher. Ideally, you should be able to perform a range of functions from one area. Storage cabinets must also be within reach. In our experience, U-shape and L-shape layouts are the most convenient.

Being one of the smallest rooms in the house, using a wheelchair or walker in the bathroom can be challenging. As per ADA recommendations, doorways need to be at least 32 inches wide and the interior space at least 12 sq. ft. Curbless walk-in tubs, shower stalls and toilet areas with grab bars are a must. Some individuals may also require bath benches.

  • Effort: Placement of similar or related items together in your kitchen will minimize effort. Persons with mobility issues will also benefit from continuous countertops which allow sliding of pots, dishes, etc. Storage cabinets with open shelving are preferred over those with doors. Ovens and microwaves at countertop height are convenient. Hands-free faucets are ideal.

Similarly, having towels and bath supplies near the bathing area and makeup and medicine in the vanity or sink area will facilitate easy access. You can install switches and electrical outlets that are operable from a sitting position.

  • Ease of cleaning: Choose kitchen flooring, countertops and appliances that are low maintenance. For example, glass cooktops are easier to clean compared to stainless steel. Store your cleaning products in drawers that slide out and are easy to reach. Pay attention to surface finishes of bathtubs, toilets and showers. Slip-resistant flooring is a must-have but it should also be easy to clean. Ensure proper drainage and adequate ventilation in the shower area to prevent mold growth.
  • Safety: Adequate lighting in the kitchen and bathroom is very important. Avoid tripping hazards like small rugs and mats in the kitchen. Keep an easy-to-reach fire extinguisher in case of an emergency.

Falls and accidents in the bathroom are common. Install grab bars for support in the shower or tub and near the toilet seat. Avoid surfaces with sharp edges to minimize injury in the event of a fall. Consider mixing valves that limit water temperature to prevent burns.

SANTA CLARA’S KITCHEN AND BATHROOM SPECIALISTS FOR ADA DESIGN SOLUTIONS

At California Bathroom & Kitchen Remodelers, we offer custom design and retrofit services to meet your unique needs. Our beautifully designed, accessible bathrooms and kitchens help individuals with disabilities live an independent lifestyle. Skilled craftsmanship and quality products enhance the functionality and value of your home. Our team provides personalized attention to ensure your project is completed on time and within budget.

Since 1994, we have served homeowners across the Santa Clara Valley, including in Willow Glen, San Jose, Almaden, Cambrian, Santa Clara, Los Gatos and Los Altos Hills, CA. Read these testimonials from our customers who appreciate our workmanship and customer service.

If you need to remodel your home for a family member with a disability or age-related infirmity, call us at 408-360-9700 or contact us online. We can schedule an in-home consultation for ADA kitchen and bath design to support your living in place requirements.