Part of being a good designer is helping clients understand their choices and what those choices will mean for their future. Another important part is being a good problem solver and giving clients good advice on ways to improve their lives. That’s why designers should try to stay up-to-date on functionality, design, aging-in-place assistance, accessibility, and color theory.
A good designer should help you focus on the safety and functionality of the finishing options for your home. Right now, I spend one day a week helping my own elderly parents with chores around their home that they are having a hard time doing or need help completing, etc. Many of us have areas in our homes that are dangerous or could potentially cause injury without even knowing it. Sometimes the very things that increased home values or caught your eye when you were looking at the house are actually unsafe if you want to stay in your home indefinitely. For example, my parents have a beautiful tiled floor that is in the bathroom, entry area, and kitchen area. This can potentially lead to an unsafe condition for my parents. Why would this be? First, the tile is very hard and when wet it becomes extremely slippery.
My father has to walk with a cane and has trouble navigating. If he or my mother fell on the ground hard, they would probably get really hurt. I advise you to work with his designer to make an effort to think beyond current trends in home decor and think ahead to create a safe haven that is also an easy-care solution. If you already have a floor surface or design condition that could eventually become unsafe, refrain from adding new finishes that pose a potential safety issue or complicated maintenance. Consider adding a smaller, non-slip, moisture-wicking rug like a walking mat in areas that could get wet. It won’t ruin the tile, but it will prevent moisture from settling on the floor. It is very important to create a safe and easy care home in which you can live comfortably as you age.
When choosing flooring for your home, don’t let your designer choose a floor because it looks a certain way or because you saw something in magazines or on HGTV. We all have. Sometimes we’re tempted to pick an item because it’s all over TV and it’s the latest and greatest. Unfortunately, most of the time these items end up requiring a lot of effort to make them look good or create a security issue. I know it’s easy to get caught up in “HGTV’s design genius,” but weigh the safety and long-term ramifications before getting caught up in the more modern options.
So insist that your designer take some time to review your home design finishes with you. Consider maintenance and security with your options. With an eye to the future and some careful design considerations, you’ll have a home that you can safely and comfortably age and relocate. Make sure your designer cares about your long-term safety, comfort, and ease of maintenance. Please contact me with any comments or concerns. Take care of yourself.
