The bathroom is one of the first areas that needs to be remodeled in order for homeowners to stay at home.  Why not avoid the hassle and add features to your bathroom now that can easily be adapted down the road for aging in place?  Below are two different bathroom features that are great options for bathroom remodels that are universal designed while being aesthetically pleasing to the eye.  

The first is a shower from Sterling that “evolves” as the needs arise.  The Accord shower comes with a moveable seat can be added whenever the homeowner would like.  Add it now and it is ideal for shaving and relaxing.  Add it later and it is perfect if the homeowner cannot stand for a longer period of time or uses a walker.  The Accord shower also comes grab bar ready, so grab bars can be easily installed when the homeowner needs or wants them.  The brackets can be adjusted for installation so they can be mounted on studs or preinstalled backboards.  This shower is a great option for those homeowners who would like to add safety and accessibly features down the road. 

The “Elevance Rising Wall Bath” tub by Kohler is another feature that will add comfort, accessibility, and beauty to your bathroom.  It meets ADA guidelines without being institutional looking and meets the goal of helping homeowners enjoy independent living for as long as possible.  Below are some of the highlights about the Elevance bathtub.  There is also a video on the Kohler website that demonstrates how to use the bathtub. 

During the winter, Minnesots's seniors face unique challenges outside their home. Snow and ice create slipping hazards. With fewer hours of daylight, poorly lit walkways can become dangerous. And many hazards can increase the likelihood of a fall- the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries for seniors.

Instead of potentially spending $19,440 on healthcare costs (the average amount adults 72 and up spent on a fall injury in 2010), it is possible to invest in simple and aesthetically pleasing home improvements which create a safer environment. The following Stay at Home solutions can reduce the danger of falling while adding to a home's beauty.

~ Overcome icy steps with handrails.
~Simplify access to sand and salt with decorative containers.
~Install exterior lighting to enhance visibility and curb appeal.
~Create a sturdy path from the home to a detached garage.
~Avoid entryway slips and trips with smart storage solutions.

Over the weekend Lake Country Builders was involved in the Twin Cities Fall Remodeler’s Showcase . It was a tremendous success. Our Open House showcased an older 1 ½ story cape cod  that we did a whole house remodel and addition onto.

This home was remodeled for an "empty nester" couple that plan on growing old in their home. The first floor was opened up with a wider hall and now very accessible with the master bedroom and bath located there on the main level. The master bathroom incorporated universal design, with wide doorways and halls and a walk in closet. The bathroom has a large curbless shower complete with grab bars. Wood flooring and tile was laid throughout the main level living area. The exterior of this charming home  was replaced with long lasting, maintenance free materials and composite decking. 

Lake Country Builders is proud of our Stay at Home division, specializing in renovations for independent living. We're very proud with the home that we showcased this past week-end. In seeing this home we hope that people will see the potential in  remodeling for the future. We created not only a beautiful space, but a workable one for our homeowner’s that will allow them to age in place and enjoy those years living in their home.