Architects and builders are betting that the next big thing for boomers will be designs that let them live longer in their homes.  An American Institute of Architects survey of residential architecture firms found that homebuyers are increasingly requesting homes built with features that will appeal to them as they age.  Of 5000 firms, 74% reported that "greater accessibility" was a growing trend in home design, up from 66% in 2006.  "We have a huge segment of our population that is aging and growing in wealth," says AIA chief economist Kermit Baker.  "I don't see this trend reverting or stopping over the next decade."  see the benefit in buying a home now that will be ready for the future.  It's not just for older consumers. 

Americans age 55-plus will buy one in every five homes this year, according to the National Association of Homebuilders.  Though boomers might not yet need accessibility features such as single-floor design, builders are hoping consumers  Level entrances and wide doorways accomodate baby carriages as well as walkers.

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