Houston nonetheless has a youthful inhabitants in 2025, however none of us are getting youthful. Older Houstonians who’re nearing their retirement years could also be considering making adjustments to assist ease into the following section of life. And Houston householders who’re involved about getting older of their present properties – however do not need to get caught up within the metropolis’s fluctuating actual property market – are discovering options by means of dwelling renovations that particularly accommodate for the longer term.
Inside design specialists Houzz revealed that greater than half of all householders undertook some sort of dwelling renovation in 2024, and probably the most sought-after upgrades centered round “ageing in place,” which means renovations that addressed the longer term wants of homeowners as they dwell of their properties for so long as attainable. Renovating may even function a financially preferable possibility for householders moderately than downsizing or relocating to a retirement group.
For Houston householders who want inspiration to assist plan their very own dwelling upgrades, Houzz has seven concepts for the very best ageing in place methods.
Widening walkways and doorways
Having the mandatory house to maneuver round comfortably must be a prime precedence as an individual ages. Open idea layouts have spacious options already integrated into the house’s design, however those that have differing dwelling layouts may have a novel problem to face.
Houzz recommends spacing out all furnishings and fixtures to have large clearances round them, and suggests widening all walkways and doorways in the home.
“Professionals on Houzz advocate 36-inch doorway openings to supply simpler entry for mobility aids like walkers and wheelchairs,” mentioned senior editor Mitchell Parker. “Within the kitchen, designers advocate at the least 48 inches of clearance between counter tops and an island to make sure a protected and accessible work zone.”
Putting in steady and nonslip flooring
Tripping hazards are a significant concern regardless of how outdated somebody is, and having a constant flooring all through the house drastically reduces any danger to each householders and guests.
Putting in non-slip flooring is essential for bogs and kitchens the place there’s a heightened probability for slipping on moist surfaces. Selecting a basic pebble tile or a matte end mosaic tile with a number of grout traces are key choices for householders to enhance toilet flooring traction, Houzz says.
For properties with steps main as much as the entrances, Houzz recommends putting in a gently sloped ramp that enables for a easy transition from outside to indoors.
Having the first suite on the bottom flooring
Single-story householders needn’t fret about this tip, however Houstonians who personal two-story homes ought to think about relocating the first suite to be on the bottom flooring for ease of accessibility.
“It’s vital to permit ample room to maneuver comfortably across the mattress and furnishings — and to accommodate medical gear if wanted,” Parker mentioned. “Professionals on Houzz recommend excited about the best way to present incredible views ought to one develop into bedridden, the flexibility for people to maneuver themselves and the flexibility for others to have the ability to transfer them.”
Putting in curbless showers
Curbless showers are an ideal resolution to keep away from journey hazards, and it provides to the earlier tip about steady flooring. These with restricted mobility profit considerably from having a “barrier-free” entry into the bathe space, Houzz says.
Moreover, Houzz’s 2024 toilet traits report discovered that almost 40 p.c of all renovated bogs featured curbless showers, proving that it is a common improve amongst householders.
Curbless showers and bathe tile with a number of grout traces enhance security within the toilet.Photograph courtesy of Structure By George/Avery Nicole Images
Numerous toilet upgrades
Houzz recommends a number of upgrades for bettering security within the toilet, however particularly highlights putting in seize bars, benches, and handheld sprayers within the bathe space.
“Paired with a close-by handheld sprayer, [a bench] permits customers to bathe whereas seated with ease and independence,” the report mentioned. “It additionally offers better performance for caregivers aiding with bathing. For added comfort and security, select fashions mounted on a slide bar that doubles as a seize bar.”
Seize bars would even be helpful close to the bathroom, however the report warns that making these upgrades would require thorough planning to keep away from any attainable points such because the bar ripping off the wall.
“Structural backing have to be put in behind the wall to make sure the bar can safely assist weight and strain throughout use,” the report mentioned.
Having well-lit areas and a number of lighting choices
In line with the report, having poor lighting in the home mixed with diminished eyesight can improve the danger of accidents. Owners can assist cut back their danger with options equivalent to putting in recessed ceiling lighting and pendant fixtures, in addition to including under-cabinet lights.
“Low-level lighting, equivalent to LED strips put in in toekicks, can be an ideal addition — it softly lights pathways and helps stop journeys and falls throughout the evening,” Parker mentioned.
Putting in easy-grip levers and handles
As one ages, dexterity and grip energy could weaken, so Houzz suggests exchanging the small cupboard knobs generally present in kitchens and bogs for one thing sturdier like cupboard pulls. Likewise, conventional faucet knobs must be changed with taps with lever handles.
