Josh Hostetler: Smart home tech helps aging homeowners
The idea of retirement conjures up images of spending time with grandkids, travel or dedicating time to your favorite hobbies. One important part of enjoying your golden years is living comfortably in your own home. If you or your loved one plans to live in their current home, aging-in-place modifications and smart home technology can increase comfort and safety.
Let’s face it, empty nesters are increasing in numbers everywhere and we all need to prepare for our advancing ages.
Aging in place is more than living in your home, it is about enjoying your space safely, independently and comfortably regardless of your age or ability level. Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist professionals help people in East Central Ohio find solutions to address the unique needs of aging adults, such as widening doorways or installing grab bars in showers, without sacrificing the aesthetic value of the home.
Installing smart home technology also offers a level of support for aging homeowners. Smart home technology is a product connected wirelessly or through the internet that can be remotely accessible with a mobile device. Smart home products such as thermostats, lighting and electronic locks are options for persons with mobility challenges and can complement other aging-in-place modifications.
A recent local survey of remodelers listed the home automation products or systems installed with aging-in-place renovations. The top home automated systems installed as part of an aging-in-place strategy included items related to safety and security (94%), climate control (83%) and lighting, electric and/or shade controls (67%). Remodelers reported that they most commonly received request for smart technology for the living room (94%), kitchen (93%) and home office (90%).
Aging homeowners interested in renovations need to be able to find a remodeler who is knowledgeable about smart home technology and home modification. The CAPS designation helps homeowners have confidence that they’re working with an expert in aging-in-place renovation. The BIA of Stark & East Central Ohio has several builders and remodelers certified in CAPS and other designations, contact us at 330-494-5700. You can also search online at www.biastarkeco.com.
Josh Hostetler is 2023 president of Building Industry Association of Stark & East Central Ohio
This article originally appeared on The Alliance Review: Josh Hostetler: Smart home tech helps aging homeowners
