In Hawaii, our culture is to embrace ohana, oftentimes gathering generations under one roof.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the number of Hawaii residents ages 65 and older grew at a rate of more than three times faster than the total state population from 2010 to 2011. Given these statistics, it is not surprising that multiple generations of a family live together in the same house.
With more than 20 years of helping hundreds of Hawaii families build their dream homes, Graham Builders is leading the efforts to make multigeneration homes more common in Hawaii. With three Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists, Graham Builders helps families who want to care for their elders at home and make residential changes to provide for their mobility and safety, such as installing grab bars, creating wider hallways and doorways and offering barrier-free showers. As Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists, all three accept the responsibilities and obligations inherent in the National Home Association of Home Builders’ (NAHB) Code of Ethics, which includes complying with the rules and regulations prescribed by law and government agencies for the health, safety and welfare of the aging-in-place community.
“With Hawaii residents age 65 and older growing at a rate of three times that of the total state population, it is important for home builders to understand what modifications are needed to help homeowners stay in their homes as they get older,” said Evan Fujimoto, Graham Builders President. “This is especially relevant when you consider that many of Hawaii’s homes are more than 50 years old. These homes were not built to handle an aging population or the equipment commonly used by older adults.”
Oftentimes multigenerational families pool their financial resources together for a common goal. Graham Builders’ design staff works closely with all family members through a collaborative process to bring their dreams to life, whether it’s modifying their current home or building a brand new one so that they can live there for a lifetime. Designed to be friendly and safe for all ages, multigenerational homes also take into consideration personal space. In addition to shared spaces, there are also segregated living areas that are tailored to each family’s unique needs.
To learn more about how Graham Builders can help you build your multigenerational home, sign up for Graham Builders’ free upcoming “Building Your Home for Life” seminar on Saturday, March 23, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Honolulu Country Club. Seminars are free, but reservations are required. To register for a seminar, visit www.grahambuilders.com or call 593-2808.
FREE SEMINAR
Building Your Home for Life March 23, 9 a.m.
Honolulu Country Club
GRAHAM BUILDERS
contact // 593-2808
address // 1144 Young St.
web // www.grahambuilders.com
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