Are senior and assisted living communities too expensive for your aging parents? Maybe you want to have parents closer for their safety or spend more time together as they age. Whether it’s an extra bedroom, unused dining room, or garage attic, in-law suites are a great option. Multigenerational living has significantly increased in the past few years and it’s no surprise why.
This Old House says, “assisted living facilities charge an average of $54,000 per year so spending $40,000 - $125,000 to build an in-law suite makes financial sense.” Not only will elderly parents save money, but some households combine incomes to make it go even further.
Down the road, these accessory dwelling units (ADUs) can also be used for long or short-term rentals. Some homeowners even use it for college-aged kids who want to feel a little more independent within the safety of their parents' home.
In-law suites can also create a lot of value, but there are basic essentials to consider. Most aging parents are hoping for more than an extra bedroom. Providing extra amenities and privacy will make the transition happier and easier for everyone, so let’s dive into 5 essentials you need for an in-law suite.
1. Private Spaces & Entrances
Living together as one big family is a drastic change in anyone's life. Regardless of whether it’s the parent needing their kids’ support or the older children living with Mom and Dad again, it’s a lot to process. Ease this transition by providing private exterior entrances to the in-law suite and even a private entry into the home.
Aging parents need to feel they can unplug and have their own space. This way the whole family can gather when they want to rather than feeling like a burden to each other. To go ‘all out’, give them a private deck or patio for relaxing outdoor experiences as icing on the cake.
2. Full Private Bathroom
There is nothing like a private bathroom to make you feel at home. Rather than sharing a busy bathroom with your grandchildren, this provides peace and relaxation. Sometimes aging parents have walkers, canes or wheelchairs, so having the ability to take their time is key.
For aging-in-place situations, the bathroom needs to be thought about in more detail. Allow extra room for any walkers and canes, while providing slip-resistant flooring and an accessible walk-in shower. Sometimes it’s difficult for older people to step over ledges, so prevent tripping hazards before they happen by offering this thoughtful solution.
Another way to deliver the perfect private bathroom is through storage. Every bathroom needs space for towels, toiletries and other essentials so add a linen closet, vanity cabinet storage or floating shelves for extra space. Lastly, research more age-in-place design tips to make sure your guests are safe in their own space.
3. Full Kitchen or Kitchenette
Another main element of providing independence is a full kitchen or kitchenette. This essential piece of the in-law suite can look different based on your budget and needs. Some homeowners decide to do a kitchenette that allows in-laws to cook most of their meals on their own. However, if you want to provide a full kitchen, check local codes and zoning ordinances to see what’s possible.
A basic kitchenette typically includes a refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher and cabinetry. Kitchenette appliances like refrigerators can vary in size from full-size to a beverage cooler. If you decide to add a full kitchen, focus on cabinet storage and function.
Cabinets can easily become the backdrop for appliances, but keep in mind that a whole home is being downsized to fit in this new in-law suite. Focus on storage and cabinet accessories that make the kitchen accessible like drawer bases, pull-out pots and pans storage and roll-out trays. The less your new residents need to crouch or lift the better.
4. Full Closet
Just like kitchen storage, closet storage is essential. Most elderly parents will probably minimize their belongings prior to moving in, but a full closet is needed to house the rest. Include enough storage space for shoes, clothing, extra blankets, laundry supplies and old keepsakes.
Place storage shelves and hanging racks at lower heights making it easier to use for parents who have lost strength or dexterity. Other great ways to improve the closet are by adding more drawer storage and pull-out trays for easy access.
5. Laundry Room
Look at including a space for laundry within your in-law suite. Although this isn’t the most important element to add, this allows your parents to function on their own without feeling like they need to wait in line. Stackable washer/dryer units are space savers and are a great option for an ADU. Add storage for laundry soap, bleach and fabric softener at lower heights and a countertop to fold clothes for a convenient experience.
During the design phase of the project, it’s important to remember age-in-place principles. As people get older, they often start losing sight, strength, and dexterity. There are many recommendations like slip-resistant flooring, effective color palettes for the partially blind, and types of door handles to use for a loss of dexterity.
Age-in-place design principles also provide more convenience for anyone using the space making it a great investment. Even if your budget isn’t limitless, do your best to provide as many amenities as possible. Any big life transition can cause some friction and giving your parents more independence will help.
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