Aging in place resonates with Jim Barber, owner and founder of HouseWurks in Zionsville. Within the past few years, Jim noticed both a trend and need in the North Indianapolis marketplace.
Long-term healthcare costs, including assisted living and nursing homes, are on the rise and predicted to nearly double in the next 20 years. Pair those figures with the second largest generation living, baby boomers, who, as a whole, prefer to age in place, and instantly a need is created for homes that are conducive and safe for the health effects of aging.
HouseWurks Custom Homes and Renovations are fully prepared for this market of clientele. With home healthcare costs increasing, why not invest that money toward a home renovation or new custom build to age in place? Through the classes certified by the National Association of Home builders Jim is a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) and is prepared to help his clients develop and execute a construction plan to perfectly match the needs of his clients.
“Implementing both ADA compliant standards and Universal Design on the interior and exterior of your home will help maintain independence and control in your life, beginning now and lasting forever,” Barber says.
Some important aspects of an aging-in-place home include accessibility to the main areas and facilities of the home. Zero thresholds, clearance widths through doors and hallways, electrical switches and outlets at proper installation heights and non-slip flooring are just a few features to be included in every aging person’s residence. Kitchen and bath design can also be critical when considering universal standards. From ADA appliances and plumbing fixtures to continuous grab bars under the countertop space, there are solutions to work with most aging and chronic illness clients.
Design with aging in mind doesn’t stop in the kitchen or bath. HouseWurks considers single-level living important, but also takes weather safety into consideration.
“In our single level designs, we encourage a safe room with safe room construction for severe storms,” Barber says. “This is typically an interior room, such as a closet, with reinforcing walls and steel brackets.”
Barber also mentioned smart home features can be attractive options.
“With motion-sensed lighting, security or thermostat monitoring, technology in the home is a helpful amenity now and for the years ahead,” he says.
Whether you are considering renovating remodeling or designing a new home for life, give HouseWurks a call at 317-753-9455.
