Accessible Home Design: Aging in Place in Alberta

More Albertans are choosing to stay in their homes as they age, and smart renovation planning can make that possible. Whether you're renovating now with the future in mind or making modifications to address current needs, accessible design benefits everyone.

What is Universal Design?

Universal design creates spaces that work for people of all ages and abilities without looking institutional. The goal is a home that's:

Functional for current and future needs

Attractive with mainstream aesthetics

Flexible to accommodate changing circumstances

Safe without compromising style

Key Areas for Accessibility Renovations

Bathroom Modifications

The bathroom is typically the most dangerous room for older adults:

Shower Upgrades:

Barrier-free (curbless) shower entries

Built-in shower benches or fold-down seats

Hand-held shower heads with slide bars

Grab bars that double as towel bars

Non-slip flooring throughout

Toilet Area:

Comfort-height toilets (17-19 inches)

Grab bars on both sides

Clear floor space for mobility aids

Adequate lighting

Vanity Considerations:

Knee clearance under sinks for seated access

Lever-style faucet handles

Lower mirror mounting or tilted mirrors

Pull-out shelving and drawers

Kitchen Accessibility

Making the kitchen work for all abilities:

Counter and Cabinet Solutions:

Varied counter heights for sitting and standing

Pull-out shelving in lower cabinets

D-shaped cabinet pulls instead of knobs

Lazy Susans and pull-down upper shelving

Under-cabinet task lighting

Appliance Considerations:

Side-opening or French-door refrigerators

Wall ovens at accessible heights

Induction cooktops for safety

Dishwasher drawers for easier loading

Main Floor Living

Creating a complete living space on one level:

Main floor bedroom or flex room

Full bathroom on entry level

Laundry on main floor

Zero-step entry from garage or exterior

Throughout the Home

General accessibility improvements:

Wider doorways (36 inches minimum)

Lever-style door handles

Rocker light switches at accessible heights

Slip-resistant flooring throughout

Good lighting at transitions and stairs

Open floor plans for mobility

Planning for the Future

The "Visit-Ability" Standard

Even if you don't need accessibility features now, consider:

One zero-step entrance

Wide interior doors on main floor

One accessible bathroom on entry level

These features also help when hosting guests with mobility challenges.

Renovation Timing

Smart timing for accessibility renovations:

1. During other renovations - Most cost-effective time to add features 2. Before they're needed - Avoid rushed, emergency modifications 3. As a planned project - When specific needs arise

Costs and Funding

Typical Costs in Alberta

ModificationCost Range Grab bar installation$200-500 per bar Curbless shower conversion$8,000-15,000 Comfort-height toilet$500-1,500 installed Stairlift$3,000-8,000 Main floor bathroom addition$25,000-50,000 Doorway widening$500-2,000 per door

Funding Sources

Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) for qualifying individuals

Home renovation tax credits for accessibility modifications

CMHC Home Adaptations programs

Private insurance may cover some modifications

Working with The Renovators Inc.

We approach accessibility renovations with:

Sensitivity to current and future needs

Design expertise for attractive, functional spaces

Knowledge of funding programs and requirements

Experience with barrier-free construction techniques

Our Process

1. Assessment - Understanding current and anticipated needs 2. Design - Creating solutions that blend function and aesthetics 3. Planning - Coordinating with occupational therapists if needed 4. Construction - Minimizing disruption, especially for residents with mobility challenges 5. Completion - Ensuring all features work as intended

Making the Decision

Questions to consider:

Do you want to stay in your current home long-term?

Are there family members who may need accessibility features?

Would modifications help current daily activities?

Is your home suitable for the modifications needed?

Start the Conversation

Accessibility renovations are personal. We're here to listen, understand your needs, and create solutions that work for your life.

Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your accessibility renovation needs.

---

Learn more about our Bathroom Renovation Services or explore options for Home Additions to add main-floor living space.