Housing Stock Will Need to Accommodate Those Who Will Age in Place

A recent report from the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies noted that by 2035, one-third of U.S. households will be headed by someone age 65 or older. It's time for builders to start constructing homes with the aging population in mind.

The Miami Herald reports that seniors are clamoring for homes with Universal Design and aging-in-place features, such as wheelchair ramps, wide doorways, showers flush with the floor, and front doors without steps.

Last year, nearly 3 million households underwent renovations to ease access for the elderly or disabled.

More than 6,000 people have completed a three-day National Association of Home Builders course focused on aging in place. ... Manufacturers also have started designing more stylish versions of items such as grab bars, so the changes are less likely to stand out.

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