September’s webinars, sponsored by Geberit, are all about re-creating spaces that are accessible and comfortable for everyone. By Dianne M. Pogoda

 

The current health crisis has changed a lot. Not only are homeowners interested in remodeling because they are sitting in their homes noticing problems with the way their spaces function, but they’ve also discovered a heightened need for hygiene, health and safety.

And, while Living in Place concepts have always been important to help seniors remain in their homes longer, or to make spaces safe and accessible for people with physical challenges, the pandemic has also encouraged many homeowners to take in their elderly parents to protect them from possible infection at nursing facilities — hence, the need for good design to accommodate these new circumstances.

September’s webinar series, generously sponsored by Geberit, addresses the topic of Living in Place, in traditional ways as well as the latest iterations of the concept, including its psychological and emotional elements.

Each month, NKBA offers free 60-minute webinars, each of which features a presentation by an expert in the specific subject matter, delivered via a virtual platform. The sessions offer certified participants 0.1 CEU per event — it’s an easy way for designers to collect the CEUs needed to maintain NKBA certification. Participants must engage in 80 percent of the live sessions to receive CEU credit; registration closes two hours prior to start times. All webinars begin at 12 noon, Eastern Time. Visit www.nkba.org to register.

The series begins on Sept. 2 with “Living In Place  — The Solution Going Beyond Aging in Place and Universal Design,” presented by LaDonna Eriksen, CLIPP, LIPA, owner of Interiors By Design in Omaha and an Ambassador for the Living In Place Institute. Eriksen says the changes in K&B design that will remain with us from the events of this are focused on Living In Place. From an NKBA study released mid-2020, we learned that 67% of specifiers focus on the desire to remain in the family home as the top factor influencing LIP design.

The session will define the true meaning and scope of the concept, cover some of the top design solutions identified in the NKBA study, like slip-resistant flooring (86%), a seat in the shower (81%), and non-institutional-looking grab bars (73%), and illustrate various ways that designers can implement these principles in any home. Eriksen will share design ideas she has provided her clients for years, details of designing and building a “Forever Home” for her own family.

To register for this webinar, click here.

Next up, on Sept. 15, join Paula Kennedy, CMKBD, CLIPP, CACC, owner of Timeless Kitchen Design in Seattle, for “Tech Meets My Parents: Smart Kitchens and Baths Aid Independent Living.”

No matter what it’s called — Aging in Place, Universal Design, Inclusive Design, Living In Place, Accessible/Adaptable Living or  Independent Living — the fundamental goal of this booming design sector is to extend independent living for as long as possible. Independence is the key to vital and happy living for seniors. With the rapid and widespread growth of connected-home technology, it’s only natural to combine these two knowledge pools to highlight the incredible benefits that our aging population will realize by embracing tech in their homes and lives.

Kennedy will talk about the impact of tech in the lives of her own parents, and relate their experiences in modifying their lifestyles, homes and daily routines to use tech to cope with challenges. This webinar will focus primarily on the aging population — and it’s not just for today’s seniors, some of whom are resistive to the new technology. It’s for today’s 50-year-olds, who, when they’re in their 70s will expect and demand flawless, integrated technology. Attendees will learn about pertinent research, statistics, consumer habits and needs, the “smart” technology benefitting this demographic, and how to identify the future of independent living technology. To register for this webinar, click here.

Next up, on Sept. 24, Wanda E. Gozdz, Allied ASID, CAPS, CLIPP, CHAMP, and owner of Golden Age Living LLC In Deerfield Beach, Fla., presents “Universal Design: Accommodating a Wide Range of Lifestyles.” Retirees across the country are gravitating toward warmer climates to settle in their “forever homes.” And with the life expectancy of older adults in the 80s and above, there is great opportunity to increase business with this consumer group. Designing for their lifestyle changes will be the key to keeping older adults in their homes. This webinar will define and explain the four key design principles, their features and functions, and how to apply them to modifications that are cost-effective. Gozdz will also cover the demographics and characteristics of today’s population, and explain the psychology of “place.” To register for this webinar, click here.

Finally, on Sept. 30, Karen Smith, Brand Communications Coordinator for Blum Inc., offers a thorough look at “How Functional Hardware Impacts Living In Place.” Remodels can be fun and exciting for homeowners, as well as present a great opportunity to think about how they can equip their homes for Living In Place. Smith will explain what it means to physically age, and how designers can help their clients plan for the future by creating more comfortable living spaces. She’ll also offer tips for selecting cabinetry and accessories based on ergonomic needs, and explain the delicate process of discussing with clients why they should consider Living In Place modifications.

To register for this webinar, click here.