As homeowners seek to modernise their living spaces, the kitchen is often at the top of the remodelling list. This article explores kitchen remodelling and how to adapt them for senior-friendly designs, ensuring functionality, safety, and style for older adults.
Safe, Smart, and Stylish Kitchen Design
Open-Concept Kitchens
Open-concept kitchens promote a sense of spaciousness, allow for better social interaction, and facilitate the flow of natural light. For seniors, an open layout ensures easier navigation and mobility within the kitchen area, reducing the risk of accidents and falls.
Ensure that pathways are wide enough for mobility aids like walkers or wheelchairs. Place frequently used items within easy reach and incorporate contrasting colours to aid visual perception.
Smart Kitchens
Smart kitchens are all the rage, with appliances and devices that can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps or voice commands. For seniors, smart features can enhance convenience, such as adjusting lighting, monitoring cooking times, and even setting reminders for medications. A YouGov study found that 24 per cent of Australians want to buy smart kitchen appliances. However, 51 per cent of the respondents over 60 years old admitted they have no smart devices at home.
Opt for voice-activated devices for hands-free control. Ensure that smart appliances have accessible interfaces with large buttons and clear displays.
Sustainable Materials
Eco-friendly materials and practices are gaining momentum. Choosing sustainable materials not only benefits the environment but also contributes to healthier indoor air quality. Speaking to Vogue Australia, City Hill Design co-founder Amy Mobley said a kitchen trend to look out for in 2024 includes kitchen cabinets with tight woodgrains and medium-dark stains. For seniors, sustainable kitchens provide a safe and toxin-free environment.
Select materials that are easy to clean and maintain. Avoid slippery or fragile surfaces, and opt for non-toxic finishes and paints.
Beyond Engineered-Stone Countertops
Engineered-stone countertop materials such as quartz are highly durable and resistant to stains and scratches, which seniors can benefit from the low-maintenance aspect and the ease of cleaning. However, the danger to tradies from inhaling silica dust has prompted measures in Australia to formally ban the use and importation of engineered-stone countertops for future kitchen remodels, effective 1 July 2024. Speaking to the Guardian Australia, Studio Ester architect Anna Power said porcelain, wood and Corian may be sufficient alternatives to a stone countertop.
Ensure the countertop height is comfortable for seniors, and consider rounded edges to reduce the risk of injury in case of falls.
Universal Design
Universal design principles are gaining prominence, focusing on creating spaces that are accessible to people of all ages and abilities. This design approach benefits seniors by prioritising safety and ease of use.
Incorporate features like pull-out shelves, adjustable-height countertops, and lever-style handles for faucets and cabinet doors.
Colourful Kitchens
Bold and vibrant colours are making a comeback, adding personality and energy to kitchen spaces. Seniors can enjoy the visual stimulation and mood-enhancing effects of vibrant colours. While some people may prefer vibrance, others might want a preponderance of white, with certain colours breaking monotony in places like the cabinet or floors. The team at Homes to Love AU, in particular, looked at a Bondi home’s kitchen, with the floor and ceiling in white, but has a low splashback with oak veneer cabinets, open timber shelves, and a dark wooden floor.
Ensure sufficient contrast between surfaces and appliances to aid seniors with low vision. Use colour to define different zones within the kitchen.
Multi-Functional Islands
Kitchen islands are becoming more versatile, serving as prep areas, dining tables, and storage hubs. Seniors can benefit from the multi-functionality of islands, which can reduce the need for excessive movement. The team at Envision Kitchens said some islands may have good functionality by adding a prep area and stove section, allowing people to cook and also interact with people hanging around; setting up hidden USB charging portals on the island adds to the versatility.
Design the island with knee space to accommodate wheelchairs or seating with proper back support for comfortable dining.
Task Lighting
Task lighting has evolved to be more functional and stylish. Well-placed lighting enhances visibility and reduces the risk of accidents for seniors, especially in areas like countertops and sinks. A kitchen industry report by Houzz noted that 72 per cent of kitchen remodels in 2022 and 2023 included work on lighting fixtures, 71 per cent of which focused on installing LED bulbs.
Ensure that task lighting is installed under cabinets and at key work areas to provide focused illumination. Use LED lighting for energy efficiency and durability.
Touchless Faucets
Touchless faucets are both hygienic and convenient. Often activated by motion sensors under the spout when a hand or arm is detected, they minimise the risk of contamination and make it easier for seniors with limited dexterity to control water flow.
Install touchless faucets with adjustable temperature settings for added safety. Ensure that the faucet controls are easy to reach and operate.
Durable Flooring
Durable flooring materials like luxury vinyl, porcelain tile, and engineered hardwood are in demand. These materials are ideal for seniors, as they offer easy maintenance and excellent wear resistance.
Opt for non-slip flooring with a textured surface to prevent slips and falls. Avoid high-gloss finishes that can create glare.
Tips and Considerations for a Senior-Friendly Kitchen
Incorporating these kitchen renovation trends into a senior-friendly kitchen requires thoughtful planning and consideration of the unique needs of older adults. Here are some additional tips, with some given further detail in an earlier A.S.A.G. blog post:
- Safety First: Install grab bars near the stove and sink, and consider slip-resistant flooring throughout the kitchen.
- Accessible Storage: Use pull-out shelves, lazy Susans, and adjustable-height cabinets to make items easily reachable for seniors.
- Counter Heights: Ensure countertops and islands are at an appropriate height for seniors to work comfortably, whether standing or sitting.
- Appliance Accessibility: Position appliances at an ergonomic height to minimise bending or reaching. Side-by-side refrigerators and wall ovens can be more accessible.
- Bright and Even Lighting: Install task lighting, ambient light, and under-cabinet lighting to create a well-lit kitchen space.
- Easy-Grip Handles: Choose cabinet handles and knobs that are easy to grasp and operate, especially for seniors with arthritis or limited hand strength.
- Non-Slip Mats: Place non-slip mats near the sink and stove to provide secure footing.
The Bottom Line
A senior-friendly kitchen balances safety, accessibility, and modern design. By incorporating open-concept layouts, smart technology, sustainable materials, and universal design principles, homeowners can create a space that promotes comfort and independence for older adults. Features like adjustable countertops, pull-out shelves, durable flooring, and task lighting enhance functionality while reducing risks. As trends evolve, designing with seniors in mind ensures kitchens remain safe, stylish, and suited to all abilities, making them both practical and enjoyable for years to come.
The A.S.A.G. Reverse Mortgage
For seniors considering a kitchen remodelling to make their space more accessible and functional, options like reverse mortgages can be a helpful solution. The A.S.A.G. Reverse Mortgage allows homeowners aged 60 and over to access the equity in their homes to fund renovations, including kitchen remodelling.
By tapping into the value of their home, seniors can finance the improvements needed to create a senior-friendly kitchen that enhances their quality of life and allows them to age in place comfortably.
Please contact the A.S.A.G. at 1300 002 724 or send an email to info@asagfirst.com.au to discuss your kitchen improvement options. You can also use the equity assessment tool below.
DISCLAIMER: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute official advice. A.S.A.G. is not affiliated with any mentioned brands or companies.