The in-style in-law suite
The in-laws. Often, nothing can scare a person more than hearing that they’re coming to visit. But as the years go by, and your parents -- or your spouse’s parents -- get older, the thought of sharing a home with them may become a welcome idea.
Three or more generations live together in 3.9 million American homes, according to the 2000 U.S. Census. A number of households consist of adult children caring for aging parents. But don’t just automatically think of sticking Mom and Dad in the guest room. Having a well-designed in-law suite can make sharing a household much more enjoyable for all parties involved.
“Adding an in-law suite is a great idea, especially for homeowners who want to add extra space to their existing home,” says Laurie Birko, marketing and communications manager for Creative Specialties International. “By thinking about the design and amenities aging parents will need, you’ll have a universal space that will be safe and accessible not just for them, but for every member of the family.”
Keep the following tips in mind when creating an in-law suite that is both appropriate and adjustable to meet your family’s needs:
Privacy, please
“Privacy is one of the most important features to consider,” Birko says. “A home that provides private spaces for each generation, as well as common gathering spaces, is the best way to make the new living arrangements work.”
Location is key, but try to keep the in-law suite on the first floor for easy accessibility. However, creating a suite on another level offers extra seclusion. Also, if possible, provide your in-laws with a separate kitchenette. That way they’ll have a sense of independence, but within the comfort and care of your home. A separate entrance is also another addition that can give your in-law suite more autonomy. Just be sure to check local building codes to see if there are any restrictions before you begin the remodel.
Custom-built baths
The bathroom is one of the most difficult rooms for older people to maneuver. It has the potential to make your in-law suite full of danger zones if you don’t plan carefully.
Some aging parents may find the toilet seat is too low to accommodate their limited mobility; this puts unnecessary stress on the legs, knees and back. An elevated toilet seat increases comfort and safety levels. Home Care by Moen offers a Locking Elevated Toilet Seat that locks securely on round and elongated toilet rims. If the bath is too far from the bedroom in your in-law suite, Home Care also offers a new Premium Bedside Commode for added safety and comfort – right next to the bed – just in case.
Standing for long periods or slipping in the shower are also concerns in the bathroom for older adults. If you don’t want to break the bank installing a built-in seat in the shower, try Home Care’s new Premium Shower Chair. It has anti-slip rubber feet, rubber-grip support handles, adjustable height settings and a basket organizer and handheld shower holder. To prevent slipping, the new Premium SecureLock Tub Grip lends a stable helping hand for stepping into and out of the tub.
Versatility is key
Just because you’re planning for this extra space to be a restful haven for your parents doesn’t mean it will always serve that purpose. It’s wise to remember that since it may only be used for a limited time, make sure it can flex to other purposes when it’s no longer needed as an in-law suite. Be careful to not design a space so specialized that it will impair the future resale value of your home. Perhaps it will become a guest suite, a home office or a master suite, so look for stylish accessories and accents that can help your space transition. But for now, as you’re planning for your in-law suite, be sure to keep these tips in mind to keep Mom and Dad safe and comfortable.
-- Courtesy of ARAcontent