Expert-Approved Home Improvements

As America’s population ages, more homeowners are choosing to age in place — remaining in their own homes as they grow older, rather than relocating to assisted living or retirement communities. In fact, according to the AARP, nearly 77% of adults over 50 want to stay in their current home for as long as possible.

To successfully age in place, it’s crucial to ensure your home is safe, accessible, and suited to changing mobility and health needs. Fortunately, with the right modifications, your home can continue to be a comfortable, secure, and enjoyable place for years to come.

We spoke with remodeling specialists, healthcare professionals, and senior care experts to identify the top home improvements they recommend for aging comfortably at home. Whether you’re updating your own home or helping a loved one prepare for the future, these expert-approved ideas are practical, beautiful, and designed to enhance safety and independence.

Why Aging in Place Home Modifications Matter

As we age, physical changes like reduced vision, limited mobility, and slower reaction times can make everyday tasks more challenging — and even dangerous — if a home isn’t properly equipped. According to the CDC, falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, and many of these incidents happen in the home.

Home improvements that address safety, accessibility, and convenience not only help prevent accidents but also support long-term independence and overall well-being.

“Aging in place modifications give older adults confidence and control over their living environment. Small upgrades can make a big difference.”
— Sarah Mitchell, Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS)

Install Grab Bars in Bathrooms and Hallways

One of the simplest and most effective upgrades is adding grab bars in key locations like bathrooms, hallways, and stairways. These sturdy fixtures help with balance and provide support when standing or moving between positions.

Best spots for grab bars:

  • Beside the toilet
  • Inside and outside the shower or bathtub
  • Along hallways or next to stairs

Opt for grab bars that meet ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines, and consider stylish, modern designs that blend seamlessly with your existing décor.

Switch to Walk-In Showers with Built-In Seating

Traditional bathtubs can be hazardous for seniors, requiring stepping over high ledges that increase the risk of falls. Experts recommend replacing tubs with curbless walk-in showers featuring non-slip flooring and built-in bench seating.

Additional aging-in-place shower features:

  • Handheld showerheads with adjustable heights
  • Anti-scald temperature controls
  • Slip-resistant tile or textured flooring
  • Easy-to-reach storage for toiletries

“A walk-in shower with a comfortable seat makes personal hygiene safer and easier for older adults with mobility limitations.”
— Dr. Laura Hayes, Occupational Therapist

Improve Lighting Throughout the Home

Diminished vision is a natural part of aging, making adequate lighting critical for preventing accidents and enhancing comfort. Poorly lit areas can lead to trips and falls, while good lighting improves mood and visibility.

Lighting upgrades to consider:

  • Install bright, energy-efficient LED bulbs
  • Add nightlights in bedrooms, bathrooms, and hallways
  • Use motion-activated lights for closets and entryways
  • Incorporate under-cabinet lighting in kitchens
  • Place additional reading lamps in living and bedroom areas

A certified aging-in-place specialist can help you evaluate and optimize your home’s lighting plan for safety and convenience.

Replace Traditional Doorknobs with Lever-Style Handles

For seniors dealing with arthritis or limited hand strength, turning round doorknobs can be difficult. Swapping out standard knobs for lever-style door handles makes opening doors easier and reduces strain.

Levers can also be operated with an elbow or forearm when hands are full or mobility is restricted — a small but impactful upgrade recommended by most accessibility experts.

Install Non-Slip Flooring

Slippery surfaces are one of the biggest hazards in a home. Experts recommend replacing slick tile, hardwood, or laminate flooring with non-slip materials like textured vinyl, cork, or low-pile carpeting.

If replacing flooring isn’t an option, consider applying anti-slip coatings or placing secure, rubber-backed area rugs in high-traffic areas. Avoid small throw rugs or mats without grip liners, which can easily become tripping hazards.

Create a Bedroom on the Main Floor

Staircases can pose a serious risk as mobility declines. Aging-in-place specialists suggest creating a main-floor bedroom to eliminate the need for daily trips up and down stairs.

If your current layout doesn’t have a suitable room, consider converting a home office, den, or formal dining room into a comfortable sleeping space. It’s also wise to have a full bathroom available on the same level.

Also Read: How to Remove Carpet in 10 Easy Steps

Upgrade Kitchen for Accessibility

The kitchen is the heart of any home — and it should remain a safe, functional space as you age. Common aging-in-place kitchen modifications include:

  • Lowering countertop heights for seated tasks
  • Installing pull-out shelves and lazy Susans in cabinets
  • Using D-shaped cabinet and drawer pulls
  • Adding touchless faucets for easier use
  • Creating wide, unobstructed pathways between appliances

“An accessible kitchen allows older adults to continue preparing meals independently, which is essential for maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle.”
— Emily Sanchez, Certified Kitchen Designer

Widen Doorways and Hallways

If mobility devices like walkers or wheelchairs may be needed in the future, widening doorways and hallways ensures safe, comfortable movement throughout the home. The ADA recommends doorways be at least 32 inches wide for clear passage.

This is particularly important in bathrooms, kitchens, and entryways. Remodeling contractors or aging-in-place specialists can assess your current layout and suggest affordable options for expanding tight spaces.

Install Smart Home Devices

Technology can be a powerful ally for aging in place. Smart home devices improve safety, convenience, and peace of mind for older adults and their families.

Popular smart home upgrades include:

  • Video doorbells with mobile access
  • Voice-activated lighting, thermostats, and appliances
  • Fall-detection sensors
  • Emergency alert systems
  • Remote security monitoring

Many smart systems are easy to install and can be controlled by smartphone, tablet, or voice command.

Add a Zero-Step Entry

Creating a zero-step entrance (also known as a barrier-free entry) eliminates tripping hazards and makes it easier to enter and exit the home with walkers, wheelchairs, or when carrying groceries.

This often involves adding a gently sloping ramp, removing thresholds, and ensuring smooth transitions between exterior and interior flooring surfaces. It’s one of the most recommended upgrades by accessibility and healthcare professionals.

Also Read: Why Should You Choose Wyman Builders?

Final Thoughts: Invest in a Safer, More Comfortable Future

Aging in place is a smart, empowering choice for many older adults in the United States — but it requires thoughtful planning and proactive home improvements. By implementing these expert-approved modifications, you’ll create a living environment that promotes safety, independence, and peace of mind for years to come.

Whether you start with simple upgrades like better lighting and grab bars or embark on larger projects like bathroom remodels and kitchen updates, every improvement brings you one step closer to a home that works beautifully at every stage of life.

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