Parade of Homes FALL 2016 11
Laundry rooms/
appliances
2 of 5
>> Shifting demographics and better long-
term health mean Canadians are enjoying their
independence well into their golden years.
That means their homes have to work for them
as they "age in place."
Early last year, the Manitoba Home Builders'
Association (MHBA) hosted Western Canada's
first Certified Aging in Place specialist (CAPs)
course for builders, suppliers and other indus-
try professionals.
MHBA president Mike Moore says it's about planning for the
future. Tall cabinets may become harder to reach a few years
down the road. you may need space to use a walker, or you
might want to install safety bars in a shower or bath.
"Even if you don't have to use it right now, you design and
build accordingly so that you can age in your house," he says.
"you may need a slight renovation or adaptation, but it's going
to be easier because you've allowed for it with perhaps your
cupboard placement or wall location or counter space that is
going to allow you to get around easily."
Cont'd on page 12
By Wendy King — Photos courtesy of Kohler, Hilton Homes
Hilton Homes — Bridgwater Lakes visitable home. (FILE PHoTo FroM sPrIng 2014)
