Striking front entries with winding front stairs... luxurious bath suits with rooms for toilet, shower and dressing... inviting sunken living rooms. These residential features add to the interest and drama.  But given the aging of our population, the homes of the future with higher and more sustained value may be ones suited for aging or disabled occupants.

However, a lot of housing stock now is simply unsuitable for people with mobility or memory  issues. If a family member becomes disabled due to age, illness or injury, a move to a safer environment or an often-costly home modification may become inescapable. And you'd see increased costs of home care for seniors and the disabled.

But "assisted living" can start at home: regardless of the age of the occupants, we can start right now making homes more adaptable for aging in place.  This takes a shift in thinking, but it's one that will pay back the homeowner handsomely. Every time you make a lasting change to the interior or exterior of your home, answer these three questions:

Read more ...