Alas, none of us are getting any younger and as we age our housing needs will evolve. Is your home ready to age along with you? It can if you do a little planning ahead.

The American Society of Interior Designers recently conducted a survey and found most homeowners are planning to stay in their homes as they age. However, most are not thinking about how their housing needs will change as they get older.

Whether you're in the market for a new home or planning to remodel or redecorate, there are a number of things you can do to make your home more livable in years to come. The ASID research study calls this designing to "age in place."

Sounding the same theme, the AARP urges consumers to consider what it calls "Universal Design" when buying new or remodeling. Homes built with universal design in mind more easily accommodate people of all ages, sizes and abilities.

Both organizations emphasize that this sort of designing doesn't mean your property has to look like a nursing home. Peggy Arbaugh, who worked on the ASID study and designs senior facilities for the Marriott Corporation, says people need to realize that these universal design elements "make so much sense from a convenience standpoint." She says many are "simply common sense things." These touches can benefit everyone from grandchildren to grandparents.

For instance, consider paddle or lever handles instead of door or faucet knobs. They can be easier for small children or parents with an armful of groceries, as well as those who might be slowed by arthritis. Consider grab bars in the bathroom. Anyone can take a fall on slippery surfaces. Also, make sure there's plenty of task and ambient lighting, especially on stairways. That's a plus for everyone in the household.

Designers interviewed for the ASID study also recommend the following:

• Hardwood floors or low-pile carpeting with commercial-grade padding to give wheelchairs or walkers maneuverability.

• Non-absorbing and easily cleanable bathroom and kitchen surfaces.

• Light-colored wallcoverings to add brightness to rooms.

• Upgraded kitchen appliances with ergonomic features.

• Sturdy and light-weight furniture with rounded corners for easier access.

• Larger bathrooms with bigger showers and tile floors.

Arbaugh says when selecting furniture, keep in mind how easy it will be to get out of that sofa or chair. Opt for something firm and higher. When selecting paint colors, use contrasting colors to highlight doorways or light switches. That can help when eyesight starts to fade.

The AARP's web site, Home Modification & Universal Design, offers a wide variety of other suggestions. The site even includes some virtual tours of homes people have built with Universal Design elements.

The research study sponsored by ASID, DuPont Zodiaq, York Wallcoverings, California Closets and Sub-Zero found that of those older Americans who are uprooting, "most were concerned about getting around the home when they're older. Looking ahead, they're worried about the home's size, lack of handicap access (especially stairs), location issues and maintenance of the home and lawn."

Arbaugh says "none of us think we're getting old. It's always the other person." However, by planning ahead, you may make it possible for you -- and not your house -- to call the shots about where you'll be living in the future.

Carol Ochs is a Washington-based reporter who covers new home trends.

Published: August 28, 2001

Use of this article without permission is a violation of federal copyright laws.