Open the Door to Ideas About Doors

Your doors can either welcome us with open arms or become a real pane in the glass. Let’s swing into some ideas that will help your home stay accessible, safe, and ready for the long haul.

As you plan to remain in your home long-term, it’s important to make sure your living space supports safety, comfort, and independence. Doors and doorways play a bigger role in accessibility than many people realize. With a few thoughtful updates, you can make moving through your home easier and safer for years to come.

Choose lever handles for easier use. Traditional round doorknobs can be difficult to grip, especially for individuals with arthritis or reduced hand strength. Lever handles require less effort and can be operated with your hand, forearm, or elbow if your hands are holding on to something else (think walker or cane here).

Widen doorways now to improve accessibility later. Wider doorways make it easier to move through your home with walkers, wheelchairs, or other mobility aids. Even if you don’t use these devices now, planning ahead ensures your home remains functional as your needs change. And let's face it you can handle a few projects now but as we age dealing with the change, noise, mess and contracts becomes more challenging.

Aim for doorways at least 36 inches wide.
Consider double doors if you have the space. They offer significantly more clearance and flexibility than a single door. Even if you typically keep one side closed, having the option to open both panels provides valuable adaptability as your needs evolve.
Consider pocket doors for tight spaces. Pocket doors slide into the wall, eliminating the need for door swing clearance. They are especially useful in bathrooms, closets, and other small areas where space is limited.
Install swing clear hinges for extra space. Swing clear (offset) hinges allow the door to swing completely out of the opening, increasing the usable width of the doorway by 1-2 inches without requiring structural changes offering the most cost-effective and simple solution to install.

Small improvements can make a big difference. Update your doors and doorways now, and you’ll be ready to step confidently into the next chapter of your life. So go ahead, open the door wide... BFore Aging in Place.