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Preparing a home for aging in place

Some home modifications may be necessary

Updated:

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By:
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Mark Huffman
Reporter

Mark Huffman has covered consumer issues since 2004, with a special focus on protecting and empowering older adults. A former news correspondent for the Associated Press Radio Network, Westwood One, and ConsumerAffairs, Mark brings decades of journalistic experience to RetirementLiving.com. He is passionate about giving consumers a voice and helping them make informed decisions. Mark has also created educational content, including Senior Scam Alert, a video resource designed to help seniors recognize and avoid fraud. He holds a B.A. from the University of Kentucky and lives with his family in Richmond, Virginia.
Person holding a set of home keys: Photo by Jakub Żerdzicki on Unsplash

Photo by Jakub Żerdzicki on Unsplash

Key Insights

  • Focus on accessibility: Make pathways, entrances, and rooms easy to navigate.
  • Prioritize safety: Reduce fall risks and improve visibility throughout the home.
  • Incorporate supportive technology: Use modern tools to enhance independence.

Many seniors want to age in place, in their own homes, for any number of reasons. While that can be a great benefit, it’s important that the home remains a safe place for someone who is getting older.

According to the National Council on Aging, preventing falls is one of the most important things you can do to make a home safe. NCOA lists the five most important modifications:

  1. Secure some support: Buy a shower seat, grab bar, and adjustable-height handheld shower head to make bathing easier and safer.
  2. Light it up: Replace burnt-out bulbs with bright, non-glare lightbulbs.
  3. Have a seat: Place a sturdy chair in your bedroom so you can sit while getting dressed.
  4. Clear the way: Keep items off the stairs, and fix simple but serious hazards such as clutter and throw rugs.
  5. Store for success: Keep frequently used items between your waist and shoulder height.

In other words, go for a minimalist look. The fewer things there are in the home, the fewer there are to cause someone to trip.

Other ideas

Consider widening doorways to accommodate walkers or wheelchairs, replacing doorknobs with lever handles, and ensuring that hallways are clear of clutter. Adding ramps at entrances and minimizing the number of steps inside the home will help reduce everyday obstacles.

Bathrooms and kitchens are high-use areas where safety and convenience matter most. In addition to walk-in showers with seating, handheld showerheads, and raised toilet seats can help reduce strain. In kitchens, place frequently used items within easy reach to minimize bending or climbing. Pull-out shelves and adjustable-height counters are also helpful features.

Smart home technology can support older adults in maintaining autonomy. Devices like voice-activated assistants, medical alert systems, and automated lighting provide convenience and reassurance. Video doorbells and smart locks enhance security, while health-monitoring devices can give caregivers peace of mind.

Aging in place isn’t just about safety—it’s also about quality of life. Comfortable seating, proper heating and cooling, and quiet areas for rest all contribute to well-being. Additionally, consider social connections: proximity to neighbors, community centers, or reliable internet for video calls helps reduce isolation.