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Designing Your Forever Home: A Guide to Aging in Place
March 13, 2025
Future-Proof Your Home: Universal Design for Every Stage of Life
Creating a Safe and Comfortable Home with Universal Design Principles
Preparing for the Future: Designing Homes for Aging in Place
As homeowners plan for the future, designing a home that accommodates aging in place is a growing priority. Implementing universal design concepts, such as step-free entries, wider hallways, and accessible bathrooms, ensures that your home remains comfortable, safe, and stylish for years to come.
Why Aging in Place Matters
Aging in place means living independently in your home for as long as possible, without the need for assisted living or extensive renovations later. The right home plans can make this transition seamless while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
Key Universal Design Features for Aging in Place
1. Step-Free Entrances and Wider Hallways
Eliminating stairs at entry points and ensuring hallways are at least 36 inches wide makes movement easier. Many ranch house plans and modern house plans already incorporate these features.
2. Bathroom Modifications
- Walk-in Showers: Reduce slip hazards.
- Grab Bars: Add safety while maintaining an elegant design.
- Comfort-Height Toilets: Easier to use for all ages.
Check out our collection of home plans with accessible bathrooms to find the perfect fit.
3. Open Floor Plans and One-Level Living
Open floor plans make navigating a home easier and more adaptable. Consider exploring open floor plan home designs for seamless movement.
4. Kitchen and Laundry Room Accessibility
- Lower Countertops and Roll-Under Sinks for wheelchair access.
- Side-Opening Ovens and Drawer Dishwashers improve ease of use.
Browse home plans with large laundry rooms for extra convenience.
5. First-Floor Owner’s Suites
A primary bedroom on the first floor eliminates the need for daily stair use. See our collection of homes with first-floor bedrooms for practical and stylish designs.
Choosing the Right Home Plan
My Home Floor Plans offers an extensive selection of house plans tailored to your needs. Whether you’re looking for craftsman house plans, farmhouse plans, or Mediterranean house plans, our downloadable house plans come with CAD files and unlimited-build licenses, ensuring flexibility for modifications.
Check out our guide on choosing the right home plan for more insights.
Get Started on Your Forever Home
Investing in a custom home plan with aging-in-place features ensures comfort, safety, and independence. Browse our collection of house plan designs to find your perfect match today.
External Resource
For more insights on universal design, visit the AARP Home Fit Guide.