Baby boomer freedom
Independence Day is in a few days representing freedom for our country and its citizens, but many of our citizens are getting older – in fact, 76.4 million of them. One of the big challenges for these millions of citizens is achieving a different type of freedom, freedom to remain living in their homes, not an easy thing for a generation that’s used to getting their way.
The leading edge of baby boomers were born in 1946 and are turning 70 on next year’s birthday, but that’s just the beginning, with millions more retiring and aging every year. Ideally, boomers would like to remain in their homes, but recognize the need to make some practical changes.
In Florida a high percentage of homes are one level and ultimately will be a lot easier to retrofit as we age, but according to studies, less than 25 percent of homeowners age 55 plus have a bedroom and full bathroom on the first floor. Considering that a universal design feature that makes life easier when aging is the elimination of steps, a lot of people have a lot of work to do.
According to aginginplace.com these are some features in an age friendly home:
•No-step entrances for easy access and egress;
•Four-inch wider doors throughout the home;
•Front door bench area for parcels;
•Rocker style light switches in contrasting color on walls;
• Electrical outlets 18 inches or higher above the floor;
•Three to four times the amount of light;
•Automatic lights when entering a room;
•Easy read and programmable thermostats and smart technology;
•Hands free doors, faucets and levers;
• Easy open windows;
• Lower kitchen and bathroom vanity cabinets and two level counters;
• Elevated dishwasher, washer, dryer and microwave;
• Automatic shut off timers on appliances;
• Recessed entry mats, area and accent rugs.
Not everyone will need or want some of the more aggressive changes to their homes like switching out kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities that could have an impact selling down the road. However, there are plenty of less costly and easier changes that could make a real difference and make senior living easier. Like every other aspect of their generation, boomers are changing the way aging is viewed. I read that someone called it a “baby boomer building boom.”
If you’re looking for more information, the following organizations all have Websites that will give you more information than you thought existed on this topic: AARP HomeFit Guide, AARP Livable Communities Index, Aging in Place, Aging In Place Technology Watch, Certified Aging-In-Place Specialists and National Aging in Place Council. And if you’re old enough to still want a book in your hand to do research check out “Aging In The Right Place,” by Stephen M. Golant, and “The Accessible Home: Designing for All Ages and Abilities,” by Deborah Pierce.
The baby boomers have been setting the trend in housing since they were born. They were the post World War II generation that benefited from the suburban housing boom, they were the best educated generation, they were the generation that created the most middle class wealth the United States had ever seen, and now they are the generation that plans to age on its own terms. To baby boomers aging in place means having the freedom not to give in to old age. Celebrate freedom this week – yours and the country’s. Have a safe and happy July 4th.
