When it comes to aging in place, one of the most important areas to consider is the kitchen. It’s the heart of the home, where we cook, gather, and perform daily tasks. However, certain kitchen features can become challenging for aging residents, from reaching high cabinets to bending over to access lower shelves. That’s where thoughtful, accessible kitchen design comes in—and if you live in the Columbia Gorge area, Green Gorge Construction can help you make those necessary changes.
Having worked in the construction business for years, I’ve seen firsthand how a few smart adjustments can make a huge difference for someone’s comfort and safety at home. Let’s walk through the key areas to consider when designing a kitchen that’s safe, functional, and welcoming for aging in place.
Layout: More Space Means More Freedom
One of the first things to consider in your kitchen is layout. For aging residents, a little extra space goes a long way. You’ll want to exceed the minimum code requirements for turning radius and room width—especially if mobility devices like walkers or wheelchairs are part of the picture.
When we remodel kitchens with Green Gorge Construction, we always review how appliances interact with each other. You don’t want the fridge door blocking the oven or the dishwasher creating a bottleneck when it’s open. A smooth flow between appliances is crucial for safety and ease.
Tip: Always include counter space near appliances like the fridge and stove. You’ll need a place to set down groceries or hot dishes, and continuous countertops between appliances are a huge help when moving around.
Cabinetry: Convenience at Every Height
Aging residents often struggle with bending, reaching, and remembering where things are stored. To solve this, I always suggest a mix of accessible cabinetry solutions.
Open Shelving or Glass Cabinets
For someone with memory issues or cognitive decline, having visibility is key. Open shelving or glass-fronted cabinets can make it easier to see where things are stored, which reduces the mental strain of searching. As an alternative, labeled solid cabinet doors can also work well. And if glass is a concern, plastic can be retrofitted in most cases.
Base Cabinets with Drawers
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen people struggle to get pots and pans out of low cabinets. Drawers in base cabinets make it much easier to access heavy or awkward items without bending down. Roll-out trays or lazy Susans are great retrofits if you want to keep your existing cabinets but make them more accessible.
When I remodeled my own kitchen, I had base cabinets with drawers installed, and it’s made a world of difference. I’ve seen the same relief in the eyes of clients here in the Columbia Gorge when we do this upgrade for them—it just makes life easier.
Upper Cabinets
For upper cabinets, lowering them slightly or installing pull-down shelving makes a lot of sense for aging residents. It’s much safer than climbing on a step stool, which is something I’ve heard leads to falls more often than we’d think.
Appliances: Accessibility and Safety First
I love working with clients to upgrade their appliances because it’s one of the most effective ways to make the kitchen safer and more functional. Here’s what I recommend based on my experience with Green Gorge Construction:
Microwave Placement
Mounting a microwave above the stove is a no-go for accessibility. I recommend placing it on the counter or integrating it into lower cabinetry. That way, it’s at a reachable height and much safer to use.
Ovens
A wall-mounted oven is ideal for reducing the need to bend over and lift heavy trays. You can install it at a comfortable height to eliminate awkward lifting, which is a great safety feature as we get older.
Stove Safety
Avoid gas stoves, which can be hazardous. Instead, opt for electric or induction cooktops. We often install safety features like hot-surface indicators and kill switches to reduce the risk of accidents, especially in homes where one partner may have early signs of dementia.
Accessible Dishwashers
A drawer dishwasher mounted under the counter is a great option for accessibility. It’s perfect for both standing and seated users. The controls should be easy to read and located on the front, minimizing the need for any awkward twisting or bending.
Plumbing Fixtures: Function Meets Safety
The kitchen sink is another area where accessibility can make or break your kitchen’s usability. When I work on kitchen upgrades, I make sure faucets have lever handles, which are far easier to use than traditional knobs.
Consider pull-out spray faucets as well—they’re great for anyone who needs a bit of flexibility. If wheelchair use is a possibility, having a removable base cabinet under the sink provides knee space for seated residents. This is a simple but effective way to future-proof your kitchen.
Countertops: Comfort and Style Combined
If you’re planning a kitchen renovation in the Columbia River Gorge, think about countertop height and finish. Adjustable or multi-level work areas are perfect for those who may tire easily or use a wheelchair. In my experience, lowering a section of the countertop (or breakfast bar) is a smart move for long-term use.
You also want to avoid countertops with high-gloss finishes, which can create glare. A medium-tone finish with a lower sheen works better, reducing eye strain and making the kitchen a more pleasant place to spend time.
Why Choose Green Gorge Construction?
At Green Gorge Construction, we’ve been helping homeowners across the Columbia Gorge create accessible, beautiful spaces that suit their needs. From Cascade Locks to Arlington, we understand the unique challenges of aging in place and how to tailor solutions for the residents of this area.
Whether you’re looking to remodel your kitchen, update your bathroom, or improve your entire home’s accessibility, we’re here to guide you through the process. We value craftsmanship, mindfully crafted and long-lasting solutions, and above all, your comfort and safety.
Ready to make your home more accessible? Reach out to Green Gorge Construction today to get started on your next project. You deserve a home that supports your lifestyle, now and for years to come.
The Benefits of an Accessible Kitchen in the Columbia Gorge
Investing in an accessible kitchen is more than just future-proofing your home—it’s about creating a space that enhances your daily life right now. At Green Gorge Construction, we specialize in designing kitchens that balance safety, style, and functionality, perfect for aging in place in the Columbia River Gorge. Whether it’s installing lower cabinetry, making countertops easier to reach, or upgrading to ADA-compliant appliances, these adjustments improve your comfort, reduce the risk of accidents, and allow you to maintain independence for years to come.
Let us help you transform your kitchen into a space that fits your current and future needs, all while adding value to your home.
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