Top 10 Home Modifications for Aging in Place

As you or a loved one consider aging in place, making some thoughtful adjustments to the home can go a long way toward keeping things safe, comfortable, and practical. From preventing falls to making everyday tasks easier, here are the top 10 modifications you can make to help your home age gracefully with you.

1. Bathrooms Can Be Slippery—Add Grab Bars

• Risk: Bathrooms are a high-risk area for slips and falls, especially when stepping in or out of the tub or shower.
• Modification: Grab bars are an easy fix. Place them near the toilet and inside the shower to give yourself something sturdy to hold onto. They’re inexpensive, quick to install, and can save you from a dangerous fall.

2. Narrow Doorways Block Movement—Widen Them

• Risk: Using a walker or wheelchair becomes a challenge when doorways are too narrow to navigate easily.
• Modification: Consider widening your doorways to at least 32 inches. This small change can make a world of difference for mobility and ease of movement around the house.

3. Arthritis Makes Handles a Pain—Switch to Levers

• Risk: Traditional round doorknobs can be tough to grip and twist, especially for people with arthritis or limited hand strength.
• Modification: Lever-style handles are much easier to use and look sleek, too. They require minimal effort and make opening doors a breeze.

4. Floors Can Be Slippery—Use Non-Slip Materials

• Risk: Smooth floors like tile or hardwood can be slippery, and rugs that slide around are just waiting to trip you up.
• Modification: Replace slippery flooring with non-slip materials or use rugs with non-skid backing. You’ll feel more confident with every step you take.

5. Poor Lighting Leads to Stumbles—Brighten Things Up

• Risk: Dim lighting makes it harder to see obstacles, especially on stairs or in hallways.
• Modification: Add brighter LED lights, motion-activated lights, or even smart bulbs that you can control with your voice. Good lighting is like having an extra set of eyes on your path.

6. Tubs Are a Tripping Hazard—Upgrade to a Walk-In Shower

• Risk: Climbing over the edge of a bathtub is tricky and dangerous, especially with reduced balance or flexibility.
• Modification: Replace the tub with a walk-in shower that has a low or no threshold. Add a shower bench and a handheld showerhead for added safety and comfort.

7. Reaching High Shelves Is Risky—Lower Counters and Cabinets

• Risk: Stretching or climbing to reach kitchen items increases the risk of falls.
• Modification: Adjust counters to a more accessible height and install pull-out shelves or lazy Susans. Everything you need will be within easy reach.

8. Stairs Become Barriers—Install a Stairlift

• Risk: Navigating stairs can feel like climbing a mountain, and the risk of falling is real.
• Modification: A stairlift or home elevator can keep every floor of your house accessible. It’s an investment, but it helps you stay in your home longer.

9. Forgetfulness Poses Risks—Try Smart Home Technology

• Risk: Forgetting to lock the door or turn off the stove can be scary and lead to accidents.
• Modification: Smart home devices let you control locks, lights, and even appliances with voice commands or an app. Plus, video doorbells can help you safely see who’s at the door.

10. Stairs Are a Daily Challenge—Create a First-Floor Living Space

• Risk: Constantly going up and down stairs for essentials increases fall risk and physical strain.
• Modification: Move your bedroom and a full bathroom to the first floor. Keeping your most-used spaces on one level simplifies life and reduces risks.

Aging in place is all about making life safer, easier, and more comfortable, while keeping the familiarity of your home. By addressing risks and making these modifications, you can enjoy independence and peace of mind as you age. What’s the first step you’ll take to make your home work for you?

Explore more resources in our Aging in Place Hub to help bring your plan to life.