Designing homes for ageing parents: Blending dignity, safety and comfort

When my 68-year-old grandmother slipped on the bathroom floor one morning, we realised something had to change. She had lived in that flat for over 20 years.

But what once seemed like a perfectly fine space had slowly turned into a hazard zone - uneven thresholds, slippery tiles, and hard-to-reach shelves.

As Bangladesh's population of senior citizens continues to grow - expected to hit 20 million by 2031 according to BBS projections - the need to design safer and more inclusive living spaces for ageing parents is no longer just a luxury. It is a necessity.

Ar. Md Asif Rahman, Lead Architect at Ghasforing Architectural Studio, has been working with families across the country to make homes safer and more comfortable for older residents. Speaking to The Business Standard, Rahman explained how thoughtful design can transform not just spaces, but lives.

Start with universal design principles

"Designing for the elderly is not about fancy gadgets or expensive makeovers. It's about Universal Design–creating spaces that are usable by everyone, regardless of age or ability, without needing specialised adaptations," Rahman said.

He highlighted that this concept does not add significant costs but can save lives and promote independence. "The aim is to simplify life for everyone, especially those whose mobility and senses are declining," he noted.

Entryways

According to Rahman, the first point of focus is the entryway. "It's the threshold between the outside world and the safety of home. A well-lit, step-free entrance with a ramp or at least a reduced threshold can significantly reduce falls," he said.

Proper lighting plays a critical role here. Rahman recommends glare-free fixtures and motion-sensor lights. "These lights automatically turn on when someone approaches the door, which is very helpful for older adults, especially during the evening," he added.

Lighting

Lighting is one of the most underrated elements of home design for ageing parents. As we age, our eyes require more light to see clearly. Poor lighting not only increases the risk of accidents but also impacts mental well-being.

High-traffic areas - hallways, staircases, bathrooms, kitchens - should be well-lit. In addition, task lighting, like adjustable lamps for reading nooks or under-cabinet lighting in kitchens, can help maintain autonomy.

"It's not just about brightness–it's about reducing shadows and glare," he added.

Flooring fixes 

Falls remain a leading cause of injury for elderly individuals. And much of it starts with the floor. "Remove or secure area rugs. They're beautiful but deadly. If you must keep them, use non-slip mats underneath," he said.

He also suggested low-pile carpets for better traction and using non-slip treatments on tiles, especially in wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms. "Also, reduce the height of thresholds between rooms. A half-inch bump can become a barrier with age," he added.

Rethinking bathrooms

Bathrooms are perhaps the most dangerous room in the house for older people. "This is where most slips happen. But it does not have to be that way," Rahman stated. He recommended installing grab bars not just in showers, but near toilets, sinks, and even along bathroom walls.

"These bars need to be anchored properly to support full body weight. Choose non-slip surfaces even for grab bars - they need to work when wet," he said.

Fixtures, too, can be elder-friendly. "Go for a walk-in shower or a tub with a low threshold. Use handheld showerheads for seated bathing. And comfort-height toilets - just a couple of inches taller - can make a huge difference," he suggested.

Single-handle faucets are another important addition. "They reduce the risk of scalding and are easier to operate," he said.

Stairs and handrails

In multistorey homes, staircases often become a critical hazard. "If you're building or renovating, consider wider treads, shallower risers, and non-slip nosings. But even in existing homes, much can be done," he explained.

He strongly recommended handrails on both sides of staircases. "They should extend beyond the top and bottom steps, with a comfortable grip diameter - ideally between 1.25 and 1.5 inches. Use contrasting colours to make them easily visible."

Rahman also suggested installing handrails in hallways or any long corridor where support might be needed. "They're not just for stairs - think of them as silent companions that help one walk with dignity."

Opening doors to accessibility

Even doorknobs can make a difference. "Traditional round doorknobs are difficult for those with arthritis or a weakened grip. Lever-style handles are a simple yet transformative change," he said.

He also noted that models with return mechanisms are ideal, as they prevent clothing from catching on the handle. Every detail matters when mobility becomes a challenge.

Easy navigation

Lastly, Rahman highlighted the importance of making navigation within the home as seamless as possible. "This is not just about safety - it's about enabling older adults to live without constant assistance," he said. Wider hallways, clear floor paths, and open layouts can all help in promoting better movement.

He encourages families to walk through their homes from the perspective of their parents.  "Crouch a little, move slowly, turn down the lights. See what they see. You'll start noticing all the invisible barriers," he added.

Designing with empathy

Elder-friendly design is not just a checklist. It's about empathy. It's about allowing our parents to live with dignity, not dependence.

For families like mine, the changes have been life-altering. We installed brighter hallway lights, replaced bathroom tiles with non-slip surfaces, and added grab bars near the toilet. A small ramp replaced two steps at the entrance. My grandmother has not had another fall since then.

These modifications are not just practical; they are emotional as well. They say: "You're not a burden. You belong here."