Orlando Custom Homes, BRC Custom Homes

Elder Friendly Homes

Whether you are building your dream Orlando retirement home, or simply planning to live in your new home for a long time, you may want to consider designs that are friendly to senior citizens. As people age, they often experience limitations in mobility and sight that can become dangerous. The good news is that risks can be minimized by designing a home with older people in mind.

Lighting

People over 65 generally require three times more light to see clearly than younger people. If their homes are not designed accordingly they are at risk for falls and other accidents. Some easy ways to increase lighting and visibility include:

• Use contrasting colors as much as possible. For example, sink basins should contrast with countertops and toilets should contrast with bathroom walls and floors.
• Skylights and large windows can not only increase the light in a home, but also expose its residents to much-needed Vitamin D.
• Track lighting provides both better lighting and easier use than multiple lamps.

Floors, Walkways, and Stairs

Senior citizens often have limited mobility and relatively fragile bones. This can make moving around a crowded area both inconvenient and dangerous. Easy tips to design a safe home include:

• Keep things level. Stairs and inclined outdoor paths can be difficult to use day after day. Try to keep them to a minimum.
• Use guardrails. If your house will include stairs, make sure they have sturdy guardrails at an easy-to-reach height. Guardrails are also good things to have in the bathroom, especially in the shower or bath tub.
• Minimize slips and falls. Rugs should be placed over non-skid backing. If the floors will be linoleum or another smooth material, make sure they provide some traction. Carpets should be chosen that will not fray easily.

Contact an Orlando Custom Home Builder

For more information about designing your Orlando custom home, contact BRC Homes at 407-612-6998.