Aging-in-Place Checklist

This Aging-In-Place Design Checklist, provided by the National Association of Homes Builders, is not only a great reference for us - contractors, design build firms - but also for anyone considering renovations / remodels aimed at aging in place. While this list is extensive, these are items to consider, no matter your age!

Exterior

• Low-maintenance exterior (vinyl, brick)

• Low-maintenance shrubs and plants

• Deck, patio or balcony surfaces are no more than ½ inch below interior floor level if made of wood

Overall Floor Plan

• Main living on a single story, including full bath

• No steps between rooms/areas on the same level

• 5-foot by 5-foot clear/turn space in living area, kitchen, a bedroom and a bathroom

Entry

• At least one no-step entry with a cover

• Sensor light at exterior no-step entry focusing on the front-door lock

• Non-slip flooring in foyer

• Entry door sidelight or high/low peep hole viewer; Both providing privacy and safety

Interior Doors

• There needs to be 32 inches of clear width, which requires a 36-inch door

• Levered door hardware

Windows

• Lowered windows or taller windows with lower sill height

• Low maintenance exterior and interior finishes

• Easy to operate hardware

Garage or Carport

• Wider than average carports to accommodate lifts on vans

• 5-foot minimum access aisle between accessible van and car in garage

• Ramp to doorway if needed

• Handrail if steps

Kitchen and Laundry Counters

• Wall support and provision for adjustable and/or varied height counters and removable base cabinets

• Upper wall cabinetry - 3 inches lower than conventional height

• Pull-down shelving

• Open shelving for easy access to frequently used items

Appliances

• Washing machine and dryer raised 12 to 15 inches above floor

• Front loading laundry machines

• Microwave oven at counter height or in wall

• Side-by-side refrigerator/freezer

Bathroom

• Wall support and provision for adjustable and/or varied height counters and removable base cabinets

• At least one wheelchair maneuverable bath on main level

• Bracing in walls around tub, shower, shower seat and toilet for installation of grab bars to support 250 - 300 pounds

• If stand-up shower is used in main bath, it is curbless and minimum of 36 inches wide

• Bathtub - lower for easier access

• Fold down seat in the shower

• Adjustable/ handheld showerheads, 6-foot hose

• Toilet 2 ½ inches higher than standard toilet (17 to 19 inches) or height-adjustable

Stairways, Lifts and Elevators

• Adequate hand rails on both sides of stairway, 1 ¼-inch diameter

• Increased visibility of stairs through contrast strip on top and bottom stairs, color contrast between treads and risers on stairs and use of lighting

• Multi-story homes may provide either pre-framed shaft (ie. stacked closets) for future elevator, or stairway width must be minimum of 4 feet to allow space for lift

• Residential elevator or lift

Ramps

• Slope no greater than 1 inch rise for each 12 inches in length, adequate handrails

• 5-foot landing provided at entrance

• 2-inch curbs for safety

Electrical, Lighting, Safety and Security

• Light switches by each entrance to halls and rooms

• High-tech security/intercom system that can be monitored, with the heating, air conditioning and lighting, from any TV in the house

• Flashing porch light or 911 switch

• Direct wired to police, fire, and EMS (as option)

• Home wired for security

Other Ideas

• Separate apartment for rental income or future caregiver

• Flex room that can be used for an aging parent/aging in place