Desire to “Age in Place” Gets Even More Popular

Older Americans largely prefer to stay in their current homes as they age rather than downsize or relocate. And that is a major driver in the continued growth of “aging-inplace” remodeling. This technique involves making home modifications — big or small — to help the homeowner live safely in their home for many years to come, especially as they experience changes in their health or mobility.

In fact, a recent survey of NAHB Remodelers found that among all the several reasons their clients are requesting home remodeling projects, the desire to age in place is quickly becoming one of the most popular.

When asked about the frequency of customers calling to request aging-inplace home modifications, more than half (52%) of the remodelers said those calls occur “often” or “very often.” That portion has grown significantly in recent years — up from 32% in 2012.

While the “desire for better/ newer amenities” and the “need to repair/replace old components” still lead the list of reasons to remodel, the increased intrigue for aging-inplace projects is notable, said NAHB economist Paul Emrath. However, “the uptick is not entirely surprising, given the ongoing growth in the nation’s older population,” he said.

According to the remodelers who were surveyed, some of the aging-in-place remodeling projects that have increased in popularity the most in recent years include:

• Grab bars in showers and near toilets

• Taller/elevated toilets

• Curb-less entry showers

• Widened hallways and doorways

• Additional lighting to interior and exterior areas

Many of today’s most reputable remodelers have gone the extra mile to refine the craft of aging-in-place building techniques by earning the NAHB Certified Aging in Place (CAPS) designation. This benchmark for home builders, remodelers, occupational therapists and other health specialists certifies that they are among the best in the industry at identifying opportunities and integrating the latest products and designs to not only enhance the safety of your current home, but its long-term value as well.

To learn more about aging-in-place remodeling projects and to find a CAPS professional contact the NCIBA to get advice and recommendations on professionals who can help you with these spring-cleaning chores – so you can keep your feet on the ground. Contact the NCBIA for a list of reputable and dependable professionals who can help you. WE HAVE THE ONLY LIST YOU WILL EVER NEED!

We are your local notfor-profit trade association representing member companies involved in all aspects of home building, remodeling, and other aspects of services available to help you in the future as well as more information on the above topic. So, you can see it is for your protection that you use a NCBIA member. If you are unsure that your contractor is a member of the NCBIA or you are looking for a list of NCBIA members, you can visit our website at www.ncbia. com or call 440-934-1090. We also have a job posting board (under the industry tab).

Visit our 24/7 Virtual Parade of Homes!!! Allows you to look at some of our builders’ new homes and communities on your mobile device or computer at your leisure (including our remodelers) We know time is our greatest asset and via our NCBIA Virtual Parade of Homes, we save you time looking for a new home or a community that fits your lifestyle. The Virtual Parade of Homes is open online 24/7. Many of the homes featured in our Virtual Parade host regular open house hours for those consumers who are looking to tour the actual homes. You can click through to builder websites to see what they have to offer.

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