By Rob Fanjoy
The average baby boomer has now passed age 50. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, currently one in eight Americans is age 65 or older. That ratio will dramatically increase to one in five by the year 2030.
This demographic change is affecting all aspects of our culture, including housing and remodeling. An AARP survey reveals that more than 90 percent of seniors prefer to remain in their own homes for as long as possible. But their homes, unless properly designed and equipped, will not be able to accommodate their changing levels of mobility and vision.
Universal design means designing homes so that their occupants indeed can age in place. It incorporates such features as wider doorways to handle any future wheelchair needs; lever door handles and faucets; accessible bathing facilities; and adjustable height sinks and countertops – all using stylish products and techniques that avoid an institutional look.
The census statistics mean that there is a huge market for builders and remodelers who know the ins-and-outs of universal design. Contractors who know how to build or remodel beautiful, barrier-free homes can help their customers stay in their homes longer. And those new to the aging-in-place market are enjoying business opportunities and higher profits they may not have had otherwise.
Become an Aging-in-Place Specialist
"Baby Boomers want their homes designed so they can gracefully age in place," says Bobby Rayburn, president of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). "Regardless of age or lifestyle, every American should have the option to live in a home that is comfortable and allows them to maintain their independence and dignity."
NAHB's Remodelors Council offers a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) program that teaches the technical, business management and customer-service skills necessary to capitalize on the fastest growing segment of the remodeling market. The following tips come from remodelers who have already earned their CAPS designations and have successfully marketed this specialty:
- Get involved with community projects such as a senior center or library remodeling to gain experience and make contacts.
- Talk to health-care professionals and occupational therapists to see what their patients need. They may also be willing to refer their patients who need remodeling services to you.
- Distribute your flyers or brochures at local senior centers, libraries, area agencies on aging, and home medical supply stores.
- Learn which home improvements that are required due to a disability are tax-deductible. Your customers will appreciate knowing.
Finally, when discussing these options with customers, it is important to approach it tactfully. Asking "Would you like a wider doorway as well?" instead of blurting, "Your wheelchair won't fit through that doorway," will make customers less defensive and more comfortable with the entire process.
Remember, you're not pointing out where your clients have lost their independence; you're helping them get it back.
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