Whether you modify your current house or purchase new  these are some must-haves to ensure you'll have a safe, secure and easily maintained home in which to spend your golden years:

Floor plan

* Open floor plan with wide, accessible paths

* Single-story home or a two-story with a first-floor master bedroom

Bathroom

* First-floor master bathroom equipped with safety products, such as grab bars, elevated toilet seats and shower chairs

* Curbless shower, featuring a handheld showerhead with an extra long hose

* Adjustable- or varied-height countertops

Kitchen and laundry

*  Adjustable- or varied-height countertops

*  Upper wall cabinetry 3 inches lower than conventional height

*  Pull-out kitchen faucet with lever handles

*  First-floor laundry with front-loading machines

Electrical and security

* Light switches by each entrance to halls and rooms

* Security system connected to police, fire and EMS

* Flashing porch light or 911 switch

Flooring

* Smooth, non-glare, slip-resistant surfaces

* Less than 1/2-inch pile carpet with firm padding

Exterior

* Low-maintenance exteriors, such as vinyl or brick

* Covered garage or carport

* Handrails near steps

For more information about ADA-compliant pull-out kitchen faucets from Moen or bath safety products, such as SecureMount Grab Bars, elevated toilet seats and shower chairs from Home Care by Moen, call 800-BUY-MOEN(800-289-6636) or visit moen.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent