Home to stay
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(ARA) - The aging population in the country is growing by the minute. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, by 2030 the number of individuals ages 65 and up is expected to be twice as large as in 2000 -- growing to 71.5 million -- and representing nearly 20 percent of the population.
With these burgeoning numbers, it's becoming increasingly important to create a safe home to accommodate everyone's wants and needs, and baby boomers are taking notice. According to a major home improvement center study, 60 percent of boomers plan to stay in their existing homes for some time. Remodeling and home improvement rank high on their to-do lists. Following are projects they can tackle themselves to ensure they are home to stay:
Safe, secure and stylish in the bath
As one of the most often used rooms in the home, the bathroom is a great place to undertake "home to stay" tasks. From projects such as custom closet configurations and adjusting mirror and toilet heights to installing roll-under sinks and angled mirrors, many product options exist for baby boomers to make their bathrooms safe yet stylish.
To help prevent slipping, tub grips are essential in lending a stable, helping hand getting in and out of the tub. The latest tub grip product designs feature an easy-locking lever to ensure a tight fit to most tubs without harming the tub surface. They offer easy, no-tool installation and removal in seconds. Shower chairs are another safe showering option for bathers that can be easily installed or removed as needed.
Today's consumer not only needs secure safety products for the home, but wants ones that blend and complement a variety of decors. Grab bars are a great addition to help assist with movement. SecureMount Grab Bars from Home Care by Moen are an ideal choice since they feature a unique anchor installation system that allows homeowners the ability to install quickly and easily anywhere on the wall -- without the need for a stud -- for the ultimate in safety and peace of mind. Plus, they are available in a variety of styles and finishes to beautifully coordinate with the rest of the bathroom.
New home standards
In addition to the bath, other areas of the home -- such as the kitchen -- rank high on the list for projects and safety updates that are quickly becoming new home standards for baby boomers. Ranging in cost, improvements such as expanding doorways and lowering countertops/sink areas help not only wheelchair-bound individuals, but also parents carrying groceries or pushing strollers. Installing a pulldown kitchen faucet helps access hard-to-reach areas of the sink and also aids in everyday tasks such as watering plants or filling large pots and pans.
Consolidating essential appliances and living areas in one space in the home is another trend for boomers. Adding a first floor bathroom, installing a first floor water turnoff and washer or dryer allow easy access for any family member.
By making these improvements, you'll create a safe and stylish home -- one you'll want to stay in and enjoy for years to come.
For additional tips and home improvement projects for baby boomers, visit ageinplace.com. For more information about stylish bath safety products from Home Care by Moen, visit homecare.moen.com or call (800) 882-0116.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
