Tips to design senior-friendly homes

Senior living homes in India have witnessed significant growth. One of the key drivers for this growth is the rising senior population and the increasing preference towards independence among seniors. However, with ageing, the needs of individuals evolve. Older adults need spaces that are safe and accessible with required support that prevent the risk of injuries. Several senior living communities are coming up in India, focusing on providing a secure environment for senior citizens. However, some simple architectural and design changes can be incorporated into any residential property to make it senior-friendly and offer a comfortable space for the elderly.

Challenges faced by seniors 

• Financial challenges: Life after retirement may pose challenges for many people owing to limited income sources. This highlights the growing importance of saving early to ensure a financially stable retired life. Elderly individuals become dependent on their children and loved ones for financial support. 

• Mobility and health issues: An individual’s dexterity and mobility decline with growing age. This necessitates the availability of certain design features in the house, such as grab bars, anti-slip flooring, etc. Seniors are prone to experience changes in vision, hearing and cognition.  

• Access to medical facilities: Health issues are common during old age. Hence, senior citizens require easy access to healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, diagnostic centres and medical stores. 

Importance of home design for seniors

When designing homes for seniors, several aspects must be considered, such as the choice of materials, layout, ventilation and lighting, etc. Considering the age-related health conditions, reduced mobility and other issues, older adults need homes that allow easy movement and offer the right environment for their physical and emotional well-being. For example, wide doorways, step-free entrances, adequate lighting, comfortable furniture, and support like armrests and grab bars. 

How to design senior-friendly homes?

We discuss the various aspects of home design to ensure a comfortable living space for the elderly. 

Accessibility

Modern homes for seniors must be designed to suit the evolving mobility needs of seniors. This can be achieved by incorporating features such as:

#1. Wider doorways

Wider entryways and hallways allow easy wheelchair access. House entrances can be designed with ramps and without steps, which enables hassle-free entry for the elderly.  

#2. Lower countertops and platforms

Low-height countertops in kitchens and bathrooms help make these spaces more functional. A better idea would be to install adjustable countertops that can be raised or lowered to suit different heights of individuals.

#3. Rounded edges

Rounded edges in furniture and countertops will reduce the possibility of injury in seniors. 

#4. Switches and outlets

Installing switches and outlets at a convenient location in the house will ensure minimum trouble for seniors accessing electrical devices.

#5. Door Hardware

The traditional doorknobs can be replaced with lever-style handles. This will be beneficial for seniors with arthritis or limited hand strength. A smart modification can be made in lever handles by choosing a model with a return mechanism. This will prevent clothing from catching on the lever and ensure levers are easy to grip and operate.

#6. Handrails

Handrails can be installed in the bathroom and other key areas of the house to ensure support. Handrails must be securely anchored on the wall. In particular, handrails must be extended beyond the top and bottom steps to offer support when moving on and off the stairs.

Safety

Safety is one of the top concerns when designing houses for seniors, as the focus is on reducing the risk of falls or injuries, thus preventing medical emergencies. This can be achieved by including key safety features such as:

#1. Slip-resistant flooring

One can reduce the risk of falls in seniors by installing flooring of suitable materials and finishes, especially in high-traffic areas. Some widely available options are ceramic tiles, vinyl flooring, etc. Carpets and mats also provide sufficient friction, thus preventing falls. Another modification that can be made in the house design is lowering or removing additional threshold height between rooms like the bathroom or kitchen. This will help prevent tripping. 

#2. Adequate lighting

Lack of lighting can often pose the risk of injuries. Hence, it is essential to install proper lighting in different areas of the house. 

#3. Bathroom design

Elderly individuals prefer seating features in the bathroom. Hence, a fold-up bench or a resting chair can be placed, enabling them to relax and rest. Similarly, a toilet equipped with a handrail and foldable seats, etc., will ensure additional support. Grab bars should be installed next to the toilet, bathroom sink and shower area.

Bathroom doors must also be wide enough to allow wheelchair accessibility. When installing bathtubs, it is ideal to install walk-in bathtubs for easy access. Wet and dry areas of the bathroom must be clearly defined. Anti-skid tiles and mats should be placed to prevent falls.

#4. Staircase design

Make sure the staircase has proper handrails that beyond the first and last steps. Install adequate lighting, especially at the landing. If there are broken tiles, repair them immediately. 

Ergonomic spaces

Ergonomics relates to designing furniture and spaces that create a safer and more comfortable environment.

#1. Furniture

Go for comfortable chairs such as recliners and armchairs. Ensure there are footrests so that the individual can elevate their legs to ensure better circulation. Consider adjustable beds with upholstered headboards and chairs in the bedroom. Place high-back, sturdy chairs in the dining room. 

#2. Accessible storage

Install cabinets and drawers with good grip. Go for pull-down closet rods, pull-out shelving and clearly labelled cabinets.

Optimised lighting and ventilation

#1. Lighting

With growing age, proper lighting becomes crucial for clear visibility. When designing senior homes, entryways should be well-lit. Install lighting in high-traffic areas to avoid the chances of accidents and allow easy movement. Place lights in hallways, corridors, staircases, landings, living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens and bathrooms.

Install task lighting, which is essential for activities such as reading corners, bedside seating, kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, etc. Adjustable lamps and under-cabinet lighting can be excellent options for senior homes. 

#2. Windows

Install adequate windows in the house that let in natural light during the day and fresh air to allow proper ventilation in the house. 

Smart home technology

The concept of smart homes is gaining popularity, which is beneficial for the elderly by providing them convenience and enabling them to live independently in a secure environment. Some of the essential smart-home features to incorporate in senior homes include:

#1. Smart security systems

Smart security systems include surveillance cameras and motion sensors, which allow round-the-clock monitoring of the house. There are smart doorbells with cameras, which allow one to view who is on the other side.

#2. Automated and voice-activated devices

Nowadays, one can use the smart assistant feature to control lights, adjust thermostats, operate curtains, lighting, and locks etc. These can be operated remotely or by voice. There are also remote monitoring systems, which family members or caregivers can use to ensure the safety of their elderly family members.

Housing.com News Viewpoint

Designing senior-friendly homes requires thoughtful planning that considers key factors such as safety, accessibility, and comfort. The most important areas of the house are entryways, staircases, kitchens and bathrooms, which require careful design to prevent the risk of falls and injuries. 

FAQs