By Gail Bicknell ASID, CAPS, Owner, Interior Designer, Fair Street Interiors
Two long years ago, very suddenly and without warning, most of us were jolted into being majorly confined to our homes. We had no choice in the matter. There wasn’t time to prepare by modifying our houses. We had no idea when things might go “back to normal.” For all intents and purposes, we were all abruptly introduced to aging in place. For some, this meant being with our nuclear family. Out of necessity or for safety reasons, others found themselves with multiple generations under one roof. Young adults, now working remotely, moved home to save on rent costs. Many of us took in our parents to keep them safe and close.
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Like it or not, from the moment we’re born, we’re all aging! By 2025, for the first time in history, the US Census Bureau predicts there will be more seniors than children 13 and under. All 74 million Baby Boomers will be 65 or older by 2030! And a recent national survey reports that 90% of Americans, 50 and over, expect to age in place. In their community; in their own home or in a home shared with family.
Are our homes safe enough?
One out of every five falls causes a serious injury. One out of four adults over 65 falls every year. More than 95% of hip fractures are caused by falling. Falls are the leading cause of brain injuries. Safety isn’t exclusive to seniors. My own daughter slipped in the shower and suffered a serious concussion ~ at 17. There’s an enormous need for affordable, accessible home upgrades to keep people safe
Not surprisingly, most falls occur in the bathroom ~ safety upgrades there are probably most important. Loose rugs, slippery shower floors, and hard surfaces can be dangerous. Converting a standard bathtub to a step-in shower, eliminating slick tile floors, and adding grab bars (which don’t have to look institutional anymore!) are easy upgrades for the whole family’s safety. Grab bars can even be designed as part of a towel bar or bath shelf.
If you do have a senior living with or often visiting your home, you know that there can be resistance to discussions about aging. And yet they typically want to have input! Seniors have a lifetime of experience and still appreciate being involved in big decisions. So think of it this way~ modifications made for the benefit of the entire family can help sidestep that discomfort and stress. Presented as a design upgrade, everyone can give input and participate in improving a space.
Homeowners are often rightly concerned with what these kinds of improvements might cost. Significant home improvements in our area can cost $10,000 and upward, but if done properly, a higher home value will invariably be the result. Whether it’s an upgraded guest bath, master bathroom, or an entire suite, your realtor will tell you just how valuable a safer home can be.
There are designers with Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) designations who can help you assess your home and decide what’s feasible, based on costs, timing, and your own space constraints. Some specialize in accommodating individuals with disabilities, from low vision to balance problems.
An upgraded, functional, beautiful and safe bathroom is an important home investment you’ll never regret.
Gail Bicknell is an interior designer who has worked in furniture and design for more than 20 years. She founded Fair Street Interiors in 2017. Gail holds degrees in Interior Design, Marketing, Entrepreneurship/Gerontology and is an ASID Allied Member and a Certified Aging in Place Specialist. Visit fairstreetinteriors.squarespace.com for more information.