Important features to keep in mind for aging-in-place homes:
Overall floor plan features:
-Main living areas on one story
-No steps between living areas on one story
-Clear walking/turning space between living areas (5 ft. x 5 ft.)
-Hallways at least 4 ft. wide
-Interior doors 36-inches wide for 32 inches of clear width, with levered hardware
Garage/carport features:
-Covered boarding area (if a carport)
-Ramp to doorway or sloping floor from front to back of garage (if floor is required to be lower for fume protection)
-Five-foot aisle accessible between van and car, and wider than average carport to accommodate van wheelchair lifts
-Garage door 9 ft. or higher to accommodate a raised roof van with wheelchair lift
Electrical/lighting/safety smart features:
-Audiovisual system indicating when doorbell, telephone, smoke, and carbon monoxide detectors have been activated
-Accessible light switches, thermostats, and controls no higher than 48 inches from the floor, and accessible space (30 inches x 48 inches) in front of switches and controls
-Security/intercom/control system that can be monitored from any TV in the household (heating, air conditioning, and lighting)
-Flashing porch light or 911 switch (direct wire to police, fire, and EMS if desired)
Check out the NAHB’s entire list here.
Learn more about markets featured in this article: Washington, DC.
