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Best Items to Include in a Kitchen for Accessibility

Writer's picture: Suzanne HallamSuzanne Hallam

As we grow older, we need to plan for our homes to adapt to our evolving needs. The kitchen—a central hub of daily life—should be a space that supports independence while remaining stylish and functional. By incorporating thoughtful, aging-in-place features, you can create a safe, efficient, and welcoming kitchen that meets your needs for years to come.




Thoughtful Design for Aging in Place


Wider Walkways

Adequate space is essential. Ensure walkways are at least 42 inches wide to allow for opening appliance doors without interference. Whether you're using a mobility aid or not, just simply navigating the space will be easier.


Adjustable and Lowered Countertops

Incorporate countertops that adjust to varying heights or feature lowered sections for prep areas, sinks, and cooktops. These changes reduce strain and accommodate various abilities, whether you're sitting or standing.


Smart Storage Solutions

Pull-out shelves and deep extension drawers eliminate the need to reach into high

cabinets or bend or reach into deep cabinets for pots, pans, and potentially your everyday dishes. Pair these with user-friendly appliances like wall ovens with side-opening doors or refrigerators with easy-access shelving to simplify daily tasks.


Non-Slip, Durable Flooring

Safety is key. Choose slip-resistant flooring to minimize the risk of falls while offering comfort during prolonged standing. Particular flooring choices have more cushioning that may reduce the likelihood of broken dishes and glasses if they are dropped.


Enhanced Lighting and Electrical placement

Good lighting is crucial. Combine overhead lights, under-cabinet illumination, and task-specific lighting to eliminate shadows, improve visibility, and make meal prep safer and more enjoyable. Receptacles in all the correct areas around the kitchen are key to being able to use small appliances without having to move them or do any heavy lifting.


Financial Support for Renovations

Renovating your kitchen for aging in place doesn’t have to break the bank. Numerous grants and rebates are available to ease the financial burden:


In Ontario, several programs can help offset renovation costs:

Home Renovation Savings Program: Launching on January 28, 2025, this program offers rebates of up to 30% for energy-efficient upgrades, including new windows, doors, insulation, and heat pumps. 


Canada Greener Homes Grant: Provides grants of up to $5,000 for energy-efficient home improvements, such as installing solar panels or upgrading insulation.

 

Ontario Senior Homeowners' Property Tax Grant (OSHPTG): Offers up to $500 annually to senior homeowners (65+) to help offset property taxes. To qualify, you must own and occupy a principal residence in Ontario and have paid your property taxes for the previous year. Apply when filing your income tax return by completing the OSHPTG application section.


Additional Tax Credits and Rebates to Explore:



  • You can claim expenses for qualifying renovations that make your home more accessible or safer for seniors or individuals eligible for the Disability Tax Credit.

  • Eligible expenses include materials, equipment rentals, and paid professional services (e.g., electricians or carpenters).

  • Examples of qualifying renovations: include adding ramps, installing handrails, lowering countertops, or modifying bathrooms for improved mobility.

  • Note: The value of your own labour or tools cannot be claimed.


  • This refundable tax credit applies to renovations that create a self-contained secondary unit for a senior or an adult eligible for the Disability Tax Credit to live with a qualifying relative.

  • Claim up to $50,000 in qualifying expenses, with a maximum tax credit of $7,500 per renovation.


Both the HATC and MHRTC allow you to combine tax credits with other grants or rebates, maximizing your savings.


Planning Your Kitchen Renovation


Any successful kitchen renovation requires careful planning and attention to detail. Consider these key steps to ensure a smooth process:

  1. Start Early: Begin planning 8–10 months before your desired renovation date to allow ample time for design development and material procurement.

  2. Download Our Renovation Checklist: This free resource will guide you through every step, from layout planning to budget allocation.

  3. Work with a Professional Designer: Collaborating with a designer ensures your kitchen reflects your needs, style, and budget.



Why Inclusive Design Matters


Are you one of the many who wish to age in place in their existing home? How do you go about doing just that? With a PLAN. When designing to modify an existing home, usually the kitchen and bathroom get tackled first as they are the most frequently used. 


 An aging-in-place kitchen goes beyond accessibility; it’s about creating a space that promotes independence, safety, and comfort. Ergonomic use of space, ample storage and even storage for pet items and lighting design are key elements that make the kitchen functional for all members of the household.


Start planning now to transform your kitchen into a space that supports your lifestyle while reflecting your unique style. With the right planning and financial support, your dream kitchen is within reach.




BOOK NOW- Get $100 back!


Book your COMPLETE KITCHEN RENOVATION project before March 21, 2025, and receive a SPECIAL $100 REBATE on your 2-hour initial design consultation. 

Start the process with a FREE 30-minute DISCOVERY CALL to learn more about our services and how we can help bring your vision to life.




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