Your ‘golden years’ is a life stage full of new design possibilities

In India, most homes are designed keeping young people in mind. We are, after all, a country with the youngest population in the world. But for another generation of consumer, people who're retired, folks with children now in college or grownup, or just living alone, there's plenty of reason to transition into a new space, or to redesign an existing home for a new kind of living. Security, accessibility, ease-of-maintenance and individual preference become key factors, rather than children's needs, access to good schools or to an office. "Most Indians settle down quite young in one place. We build a house, have children there and grow old there too," says Sheethal Ann Gijo.

“It was too much for me to do single- handedly. There were things accumulated from years in the Navy; lots of furniture. It felt like clutter.” Gladys downsized to a one-bedroom apartment flat at Bless Retirement Living. It is a community living space for folks over 55 years of age, just outside Kochi, about a 30-minute drive from the airport. “This place is my sanctuary,” she says.

“A clean, clear and clutter-free home is safest for me now. I’ve got rid of rugs and carpets because they can make you slip and fall,” she says. “The bathroom has lots of room, so I can move around easily.” It is a big change for a woman who admits she once thought of bungalows as the ideal home.

“The idea of space has changed so much with time and age,” she says. Her advice is to simplify the design of wherever you live. “Ease and functionality matters, as you get older”.

 

Lifestyle Needs Change with Age

Sheethal of Geriarc says most people overlook ageing as a consideration when they’re making their home. “We resist change and only convert spaces when we absolutely have to,” she says. “But it’s always a good idea to plan ahead.” For those who have accepted the inevitability of the cycle of life and would like to incorporate some changes into their existing design or even plan ahead, Sheethal has these valuable suggestions:

• Have grab bars, especially in bathrooms and bedrooms.
  
  
• Height of the WC is crucial. It should be a little higher, so it doesn't damage your knees. Have a grab rail to hold on to.
  
  
• Kitchen counters should be a little higher, so you don't have to bend, especially if you're prone to back problems.
  
  
• Wooden floors are best. It is high maintenance but even if you fall, chances of fractures are less with a wooden floor. Vinyl tiles are a good option too.
  
  
• Avoid unnecessary optics and furniture.
  
  
• Round doorknobs should be replaced with lever handles. Round knobs are difficult to turn as you get older.
  
  
• Sliding doors are best for bathrooms. They don't take up space within the washroom. They're also easy to close from the inside and outside and easy to break open should the need arise.
  
  
• Avoid gas stoves. Use induction cookers to prevent gas leaks and fires.
  
  
• Have areas with good ventilation and natural sunlight. Also have indoor plants. It's always a pleasure to have a splash of green around.
  
  
• Opt for light colours, because it gives a sense of space and calm, and helps with mobility.
  
  
• If you decide to downsize, go for spaces which are within 1,500 to 2,000 square feet.
  
  
• Have night lamps along the bottom of the room. These are helpful guides at night.
  
  
• For those who have two-storey homes, set aside the space and option for a domestic elevator or chair lifts. These are functional and easy to install, and will prove to be a boon.