Image source: thejavelingroup.com
The elderly definitely have needs different from those of children or the middle-aged. Those needs are not limited to food, physical activities, and recreation, but also extend to amenities in the home. In searching for a home with comfortable living conditions for a senior citizen, one must first examine several segments of the house such as the entryway, the bathrooms, the bedrooms, and the kitchen.
The entryway connects the home to the outside world, making it a significant passage. The homeowner might not realize it, but quite a number of activities, such as receiving guests, bringing in groceries, and going out to social events, happen at the doorway. That is why the prime consideration is an accessible and convenient entryway, conducive for receiving people no matter the weather or the time of day. It should be barrier-free and have a ramp or inclination.
Image source: thejavelingroup.com
There shouldn’t be step thresholds of any kind before or after any of the room doors in the house. In the bathroom, the sink should have knee clearance, the toilet must be elevated, and grab bars have to be accessible at every significant location. The bedroom, meanwhile, must have rocker light switches and a walk-in closet with storage shelves at different elevations. Finally, the kitchen, just like the bathroom, must have a sink that has knee clearance. The microwave or oven must also be mounted on the wall and be reachable, with the countertops having varying heights.
Alan Naul is the founder of The Javelin Group, a company that makes strategic investments in real estate assets and related operating companies, primarily through the development of senior living facilities and hospitality properties. More about him and his company can be read here.
Alan Naul 
