Creating a senior-friendly kitchen is a smart way to stay independent and comfortable in your home. We work with several kitchen remodeling companies in Northern Michigan specializing in aging-in-place kitchen design, creating a safe and accessible environment for seniors or those with limited mobility.
Aging-in-place is a design philosophy focused on helping older adults live longer and more independently in their own homes while lowering their risk of falling or injury. The concept promotes independence, confidence, and a sense of belonging.
The kitchen is an important area of focus for aging-in-place remodels. Americans spend over 1,000 hours per year in the kitchen, and that time is inherently active. Accessing upper and lower cabinets, lifting items from the refrigerator, and using the stove require strength, coordination, and cognitive ability to perform safely.
Depending on your current kitchen layout, budget, and mobility needs, a full kitchen remodel may not be necessary. We have a few aging-in-placing kitchen ideas to help curate a safer, more functional kitchen for your golden years.
Combining natural and artificial lighting sources increases visibility and reduces the risk of tripping or bumping into tables, chairs, and counters. For natural light, opt for blinds that are easily adjustable with a rod rather than a string, which may be harder to grasp. Add additional light sources in dark areas of the kitchen, such as below upper cabinets or the corners of deep countertops.
Most interior doors are at least 36 inches wide, which is a safe width for most individuals to walk through safely. Strive to make every walkable area of your kitchen just as wide! Whether you have a kitchen island, kitchen table, chairs or tools, look for ways to make the kitchen more roomy. This could include:
In the kitchen and most rooms, aging-in-place design recommends removing rubs, level changes, or a slick surface. Hardwood floors are often a good option. Linoleum works well. Be sure to address any curling or holes quickly, as both are common trip hazards.
Many aging-in-place kitchen designs call for lowering countertop heights. If that’s in your budget, it’s a smart idea to make valuable countertop space more accessible. It’s just as important to address cabinets and draws. Use cabinet pulls with soft, round, long edges that are easily grasped safely.
Modern appliances have many built-in safety and accessibility features that make daily use easier for seniors. From smart microwaves to touchless stoves, here are a few of our favorite features for a senior-friendly kitchen.
Voice-Activated Microwaves - These devices are easy to program and often connect to devices like Alexa to easily control activation, timer, and other settings.
Stoves - Heating elements are especially dangerous, but modern stoves have features to mitigate risk. We recommend electric stoves to avoid open flames, and we’ll help you choose a stove with inactivity sensors, induction heating, and more.
Dishwashers - Most dishwashers require plenty of bending and reaching, which can prove challenging for many seniors. We’ll help you find a dishwasher with a large, easy-to-read display, large handles, and even countertop dishwashers that eliminate the need to bend over or kneel.
Max’s Service is dedicated to providing our customers with expert recommendations for the best appliances for seniors. Count on our experienced team to explain all your appliance options, teach you how to use all the appliance features, and keep your home running smoothly with prompt and professional service after the sale. Start your appliance search at Max’s and contact us today!
Share on Twitter Share on Facebook
2024
2023
2022
2021
2020
2017
Comments
There are currently no comments
New Comment