According to the U.S. Census Bureau's most recent estimates, there are 78.2 million Baby Boomers in the United States. This generation, which represents individuals who were born between the years 1946 and 1964, comprises such a large percentage of the consuming public that their spending habits and lifestyles have a powerful influence on the economy.

Setting the current state of the economy aside, as they approach retirement age, Baby Boomers tend to have more disposable income than their other generational counterparts. Indeed, SeniorJournal.com claims that “the estimated annual spending power of the Baby Boomers is more than $2 trillion.” What is this generation spending all that money on? “Older Boomers (born 1946–55), many of whom are empty nesters, put their money into upgrading their homes,” adds Senior Journal.

This generation had to work hard for its money, however, and so its members know the value of a dollar. That's why remodeling Baby Boomers demand the highest quality return on their investment. Nowhere is that more true than in a kitchen remodel, which starts with high-quality kitchen cabinets. “Accessibility and safety are [also] key issues for Baby Boomers [who are] looking forward to staying in their homes as they age,” reports ARAcontent in a recent article titled, “Smart Bath and Kitchen Redesigns for Boomers Aging in Place.”

The article goes on to specifically point out, “As seniors age, using the kitchen can become a challenge. Arthritis may make it difficult to open drawers, [kitchen] cabinets and pantry doors. Small knobs or u-shaped handles can be difficult for seniors to grasp. Larger cabinet hardware and lever-style door handles can make life easier.”

When replacing their kitchen cabinets, Baby Boomers should seek out a cabinetry manufacturer that offers a wide selection of decorative knobs, pulls and companion groups. They should also consider a kitchen cabinet manufacturer that offers cabinetry options that are not only attractive on the exterior but also functional on the interior. The ultimate aim for Boomers should be to make their kitchen space more accessible, flexible and unique. Not only do such options afford the aging homeowner the ability to add the perfect finishing touch to their cabinetry selection, they also ensure he or she can functionally enjoy their kitchen remodel.

Because kitchen cabinet knobs are smaller and therefore harder to grasp, remodeling Boomers may want to opt for decorative hardware pulls instead. In addition, storage options like pullout trays and spinning lazy Susans can make access to your kitchen cabinet contents a breeze. A reputable kitchen cabinet manufacturer will afford the homeowner full input on this selection process.

Look for a kitchen cabinet manufacturer whose products are 100% built-to-order. That way, you'll have peace of mind in knowing that each and every cabinet is built specifically for you as an individual consumer and to your exact specifications. Having control over the kitchen cabinet size and construction as well as all of the storage solutions and decorative enhancements that make your kitchen function for the way your family lives today—and years to come—can make all the difference.