Older adults continue to drive growth in home remodeling across the country. For those settled in place, they’re looking to optimize their current homes to suit their needs going forward. Easy accessibility and low maintenance are some of the factors driving their decisions.

Harvard University’s Joint Center for House Studies predicts that “older homeowners will continue to drive growth in improvement spending across the nation, fueling demand for aging in-place retrofits.” Also surmising that in metros areas across the country (including Atlanta, Cincinnati, Dallas, Houston, Memphis, Raleigh and San Francisco), average per owner spending by households approaching retirement (age 55–64) was at least a quarter more than average spending by other age groups in 2015.

According to Investopedia, some modifications include removing carpeting or rugs, in favor of a solid surface, smoother material that will make it easier to maneuver assisted devices. Flooring with a little grip or texture will help prevent possible slipping. With the flexibility of large format surfaces, flooring can be created that still feels contemporary rather than creating a sterile environment.

The same holds true for bathrooms, most of which would need a complete remodel to fit the needs of aging boomers. Companies like Kohler and Moen have begun targeting millennials in an effort to change the perspective on traditionally “assisted” pieces. They’re now creating grab bars that have the look and feel of their contemporary lines, while shower seats are being installed to create an easier perch for shaving. To reduce the overall upkeep of the bathroom, consumers are calling for fewer grout lines and lower maintenance materials. Large slab surfaces and linear drains that keep the bathroom looking clean and modern are increasing in popularity.

In the kitchen, it’s all about ease of access and low maintenance materials. Push-to-open and soft close cabinet doors provide a clean look while also eliminating the need for handles and knobs. When it comes to countertops and backsplashes, the focus is on durability and easy cleaning. Quartz has become the primary choice because of it’s ease of use, low maintenance and the ongoing color options being offered. Marble look quartz products, as well as concrete looking slabs, are the primary source of consumers.

The National Association of Home Builders put a Remodeling Checklist together, some of the key aspects points for Kitchen and Laundry are broken down here: