I love my mother-in-law but I never planned on living with her permanently. I have been enjoying her living with us now that we have kids but I feel like we all need some extra space so I am getting a granny flat built at the back of our block. This should allow us to have some extra space to make sure everyone has the privacy that they need whilst we can still be a family. This block has some tip on the process of building a granny flat including how to choose a contractor and how to get the council approval for the build.
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According to official government statistics, the population in Australia is ageing, which is essentially due to low fertility and the fact that people are living longer than ever. Many people want to maintain their independence as they approach their golden years but want to make sure that they can enjoy the quality of life in the place they intend to call home. This has led to many people designing a home from scratch with the idea of "ageing in place" for the long term. If you're in this position, what factors do you need to consider as you custom design your place?
Looking to the Future
Of course, it can be difficult to think about declining health in older years and especially if you are in good health right now. But there are certainly some design elements to consider that take into account more difficult mobility.
Flooring
For example, think about installing flooring services that are much kinder to older joints and are less likely to cause a mobility hazard. Smoother surfaces can certainly be more effective than carpets and rugs. You should try to avoid any significant level changes that can be difficult for those with poorer vision or some instability.
Multistorey
If space is challenging and you need to build a two-storey home or if this is in any way your preference, look to the long term. You may want to plan your master suite on the lower level just in case you find it difficult to deal with stairs in the future. Alternatively, design your stairwell so that, if needed, you can add an elevator or a stairlift in the future.
Kitchen
Give yourself plenty of room here and install seating areas where you can sit as you prepare meals in the future. Position the cabinets where they will always be easily accessible and consider a central island with wheels for even more options.
The Bathroom
While working on your master suite, allow plenty of room in the bathroom. After all, this could be a particularly challenging part of the home for those with reduced mobility. Make doors wider than usual in case you have to accommodate a wheelchair and introduce a sitting position in the shower, complete with adjustable height shower head and hand-held wand. Of course, make the shower walk-in and without a threshold rather than opting for a shower-over-bath configuration.
Getting More Inspiration
These are just a few of the factors to consider when custom designing a home to age in. Contact a custom home builder to learn more.
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