Getting older is a natural part of life, and across the U.S., we're seeing a steady rise in aging populations. In fact, by 2034, adults are expected to outnumber children for the first time in U.S. history, and by 2050, that number is expected to reach 82 million. These changing demographics are bringing aging-in-place designs to the forefront for homeowners and families alike.
As we age, our way of moving through and interacting with our homes changes. Stairs become a little trickier, and bathrooms may feel less safe. Even everyday tasks, like cooking and doing laundry, can demand more from our bodies. The good news? With thoughtful age-in-place home modifications, you don't have to give up the home or neighborhood you love.
At Dusty Rhodes Homes, we've helped many Johnson County homeowners adapt their spaces with smart, senior-friendly upgrades that prioritize safety, comfort, and long-term livability. Let's walk through a few of the most effective and stylish aging-in-place renovation trends that can help you stay in your home for years to come.
Aging-in-place renovation can feel intimidating, especially if you're unsure where to start. That's why our team at Dusty Rhodes Homes has shared a few senior-friendly home upgrades you should explore first below. They should give you a better idea of what you might need to make your home senior-friendly in the future, even if you aren't currently in this phase of life.
When planning a senior-friendly home remodel in Kansas City, KS, one of the first rooms we recommend upgrading is the bathroom. Statistically, 80% of falls occur in a bathroom, with most slip-and-fall accidents leading to injuries for the elderly.
To help reduce risks and keep your bathroom both safe and comfortable as you age, consider installing walk-in showers with handheld showerheads, built-in benches, stylish yet sturdy grab bars, and non-slip flooring.
We also frequently suggest opting for a taller toilet and improved lighting to ensure the space always remains easily visible and accessible.
If your owner's suite is currently located upstairs, now may be the time to move it to the main floor. The same goes for the laundry room!
As we age, daily routines become easier when essential spaces are accessible without the need to climb stairs. Fortunately, moving these rooms downstairs doesn't always require costly additions. In many cases, existing spaces (such as an underused dining room) can be reimagined into a comfortable, private main-floor suite.
When we meet to discuss your ideas and goals, we'll help you explore creative and practical options that support your aging-in-place needs without compromising style or comfort.
One of the most impactful remodel enhancements for seniors is wider doorways and hallways. In Johnson County, many older homes were built before accessibility was a common design consideration, meaning your home likely has narrower doorways and hallways.
This can pose challenges as mobility needs change and the use of walkers or wheelchairs becomes necessary. To address this, we recommend widening hallways and doorways to at least 36 inches, improving both safety and day-to-day comfort. Even if you never need mobility aids, these changes help create a more open, welcoming home environment.
Designing a kitchen that’s both functional and comfortable for aging in place can present unique challenges, especially when countertops are too low or convenient storage is out of reach. Our experienced team can help by incorporating lifestyle-specific elements like adjusting countertop sections to the ideal height and installing pull-out drawers with easy-to-grip hardware for simpler cabinet access.
We can even add under-counter seating or workspaces, providing a convenient place to sit while preparing meals. These thoughtful adjustments help ensure your kitchen remains accessible, practical, and enjoyable for years to come.
Sometimes, the smallest changes can make the biggest impact for an aging-in-place Johnson County home remodel. Even small updates can make a huge difference when it comes to aging-in-place upgrades for your Johnson County home. Consider updating outdated lighting with bright, glare-free fixtures to improve visibility throughout your home, especially in stairways and transitional spaces.
You could also consider replacing slippery flooring with a more secure option, such as LVP or low-ply Berber carpet, which are known to be some of the best flooring options for aging in place.
Additionally, installing zero-step entries at your home’s entrances, garage, or showers help minimize tripping hazards throughout the home. These practical improvements can enhance safety without altering your home’s overall appearance.
At Dusty Rhodes Homes, we understand that your home's safety, comfort, privacy, and aesthetics are a priority, especially if you want to age in place. If you're considering aging-in-place remodeling services, we'd like to be at the top of your list because we keep these priorities in mind from the moment we take on your renovation in Johnson County.
Our luxury aging-in-place designs in Overland Park, KS, and surrounding areas take into account your current and future needs to ensure we suggest straightforward, premium, practical, and beautiful upgrade options. With us on your side, you're guaranteed a remodel that will serve you for years into the future.
If you would like to speak with our team to explore aging-in-place solutions, please contact us here. We're ready when you are.