Staying Home
Residents can age in place in a cohousing community. The final concept in senior cohousing is aging in place, meaning that the project meets the physical and social needs of its members, even as those requirements change as the resident ages. According to the National Association of Home Builders, these are among the most popular aging-in-place features:
- First- or single-floor living. A full bath and a master bedroom on the main floor create a more accessible and safer environment. At least one entry should have no steps to foster easier and safer access. Ramps allow easy entry and exit for those in wheelchairs.
- Conveniently located and easy-to-use controls and handles. Placing electrical outlets and phone jacks higher on the wall and light switches lower makes them easier to reach for people with restricted movement. Lever handles make it easier to open doors and cabinets.
- Extra maneuvering space throughout the home. Doorways and hallways that are 36 inches wide enable wheelchairs and walkers to pass freely. Larger bathrooms accommodate people with varying mobility. Grab bars, higher toilets, and shower stools make provide stability and prevent falls.