In a few short weeks we will be attending the National Kitchen and Bath Show in Las Vegas. Over six hundred  companies will be showcasing their wares at this industry’s largest trade show.   Designers, architects and contractors will gather to learn about the latest innovative products, technology, design and trends.  

One of the featured programs is called Livable Design – also referred to as “Aging in Place” or “Universal Design” – design that is usable for all people, to the greatest extent possible , without the need for adaptation or specialized design. Universal Design allows families to remain in their homes for as long as they choose.

If you are the child of an aging parent, you’re probably more than aware of these pertinent statistics about Seniors and falls: 

• One in four seniors fall each year;  their chances of falling again then doubles.

• Sixty percent of falls happen in the home (80% of those in the bathroom) and thirty percent of those falls require a hospital visit.

• Every 13 seconds an older adult goes to the ER due to a fall. Fearing one of these mishaps, Seniors become reluctant to leave their homes and therefore begin to isolate themselves from the outside world.

If you’re thinking of renovating (be it a multi generational home or even a second home), here are five tips to keep a safer step:

1. Renovating a bathroom? Add grab bars that can act as towel bars. One step up would be to purchase ones with LED lighting in.  

2. Renovating a kitchen or bathroom? The installation of heated floors will increase drying time on wet floors and minimize slipping. 

3. Threshold heights leading from room to room should be flush with your flooring – the raised ones are great for keeping the baby in the walker out of the bathroom…but not so great for grandma in her walker or wheelchair.

4. Choose tile that is honed or has a rougher surface rather than a polished surface.   (For wood floors choose a satin finish)

5. Already chose a polished finish? We discovered a non-slip tile treatment that you can apply to your existing tile that will create traction and improve safety on slippery floors.

If you are thinking of renovating, there’s so much more you can do to accommodate all ages, and allow you to remain in your home. Our free guide offers a wealth of information so that you can live in your “Forever Home”: Sign up now to download this indispensable guide.