What is Aging-in-Place Remodeling?

Are you dreaming of turning your current house into your forever home but not sure how to get started? Many homeowners want to stay in their homes as they grow older, but are unsure what changes to make for safety, accessibility, and comfort. It's common to feel overwhelmed by remodeling your home to age-in-place, especially if you don't know where to begin.

At Custom Built, we understand the importance of creating a home environment that supports aging-in-place. With 15+ years of experience in the remodeling industry, we have helped numerous clients make their homes safer, more accessible, and more comfortable. Our team is committed to providing compassionate and expert guidance to homeowners seeking to modify their homes to meet their evolving needs as they age.

In this article, we'll address some common questions and concerns about aging-in-place remodeling:

1. What is Aging-in-Place Remodeling?
2. What Are Some Common Modifications?
3. Why is Aging-in-Place Remodeling Important?
4. When Should I Consider Aging-in-Place Remodeling?
5. How Do I Know if My Home is Suitable for Aging-in-Place Remodeling?
6. Do I Need to Hire a Professional?
7. How Much Does Aging-in-Place Remodeling Cost?
8. Can I Finance Aging-in-Place Remodeling?
9. How Long Does It Take?
10. What Should I Consider When Planning for Future Aging-in-Place Needs if I'm Remodeling My Home Now?
11. Can These Modifications Increase the Resale Value of My Home?

1. What is Aging-in-Place Remodeling?

Aging-in-place remodeling means changing your home to fit your needs as you age. These changes make it easier and safer to move around and help you stay in your home for as long as possible.

2. What Are Some Common Modifications?

PC: Evodek

Common aging-in-place modifications include:

• Installing grab bars and handrails
• Widening doorways
• Adding ramps or stairlifts
• Lowering countertops and cabinets
• Installing walk-in showers or tubs

These modifications address mobility, vision, and other challenges you may face as you age.

3. Why is Aging-in-Place Remodeling Important?

Aging-in-place remodeling will help everyone stay independent in their own homes for longer. By making homes more accessible and safe, seniors can continue to live comfortably and confidently as they age.

4. When Should I Consider Aging-in-Place Remodeling?

It's never too early to start thinking about aging-in-place remodeling. Ideally, you should consider modifying your before you experience mobility or health issues. However, it's never too late to make improvements that can enhance safety and comfort.

5. How Do I Know if My Home is Suitable for Aging-in-Place Remodeling?

Homes of all sizes and layouts can be modified for aging-in-place, but some may require more extensive renovations than others. Factors to consider include:

• The design of the home
• Existing features, such as stairs or narrow doorways
• Your specific needs and preferences

6. Do I Need to Hire a Professional?

Some aging-in-place changes can be DIY projects. However, many need professional help from contractors, architects, or aging-in-place experts. They can evaluate your home, suggest changes, and ensure the work is done safely.

If you are hiring a professional contractor, look for someone who has certification for aging-in-place updates, like CAPS.

7. How Much Does Aging-in-Place Remodeling Cost?

Aging-in-place remodel costs vary based on the project's size, materials, and other factors. Small changes like adding grab bars are cheaper, but bigger ones like installing a stairlift cost more. Yet, spending on these modifications can save money compared to living in assisted care.

Here are cost articles based on your project type:

• Deck Build
• Home Addition
• Basement Finish
• Sunroom Addition
• Half-Bath Remodel
• Bathroom Remodel
• Luxury Kitchen Remodel

8. Can I Finance Aging-in-Place Remodeling?

Yes, there are different ways to pay for your remodel, like using savings, home loans, or help from the government. Some might also qualify for aid from Medicaid or similar programs.

Here are a few articles you can consult for more information on financing:

• What's an MSUFCU Construction Loan?
• What is an MSUFCU SmartLine℠ Home Equity Loan?
• Financing your Remodel Using an MSUFCU Home Improvement Loan

9. How Long Does It Take?

The timeline for aging-in-place remodeling depends on:

• The project's scope
• Permitting
• Material availability
• Contractor schedules

Simple modifications may be completed in several days or weeks, while larger renovations may take several months. Make sure to talk about when you want the work done and what you expect from your contractor before they start.

10. What Should I Consider When Planning for Future Aging-in-Place Needs if I'm Remodeling My Home Now?

If you’ve found your forever home and are ready to update it for aging-in-place, think about what you need now and what might change as you get older, like how you move around, your health, or how you live day to day. Work with your contractor or designer to create a flexible plan to adapt to your evolving needs.

11. Can These Modifications Increase the Resale Value of My Home?

While your modifications may not directly increase the resale value of your home, they can make it more attractive to a broader range of potential buyers, including seniors and individuals with disabilities. Investing in accessibility and safety features can enhance your home's overall marketability and appeal.

Next Steps to Remodeling Your Home for Aging-in-Place

As you consider aging-in-place remodeling, it's essential to remember the primary goal: to create a home environment that allows you or your loved ones to maintain independence, safety, and comfort as you age. By addressing the challenges and uncertainties surrounding home modifications, you can take proactive steps to ensure your home meets your evolving needs.

Through this article, we've provided valuable insights and practical advice to guide you through aging-in-place remodeling.

At Custom Built, we're dedicated to helping homeowners like you create homes that enhance quality of life and promote independence. With our 15+ years of expertise and compassionate approach, we're here to support you every step as you embark on your remodeling journey.

If you're ready to take the next steps towards aging-in-place remodeling, we invite you to contact our team for personalized guidance and support. Together, we can create a customized plan to transform your home into a safe, accessible, and comfortable space for years.

Now that you know more about the top home modifications in aging-in-place, let’s take a look at the top deck design considerations for your golden years and how to vet your remodeling partner options:

• 5 Best Deck Design Considerations for Aging-in-Place - Learn more about the design considerations you should include in your new deck remodel for aging-in-place.
• Top 8 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Remodeling Contractor - A list of essential questions to ask your prospective remodeling contractor before hiring them for your project; with additional questions included in each section.