40 Home Modifications for Seniors to Age in Place

Studies indicate that many seniors prefer to remain in their homes for as long as they can. However, older adults often have unique needs that may make it challenging or even unsafe for them to continue living independently in their current homes.

For this reason, if aging in place feels right for you or a loved one, some home upgrades may be needed to meet your specific needs.

In this article, we’ll cover 40 essential aging in place home modifications to help enable you or an older family member to continue living independently at home. We’ll also share some practical tips on planning your project and selecting the right professionals for the job.

The Importance of Home Modification When Aging in Place

Aging in place means choosing to stay in your current home as you grow older. For many older adults, the comfort of familiar surroundings can be deeply reassuring. Or maybe your aging parent isn’t sure a senior living community is the right step yet.

If your family member wishes to age in place, it’s essential to ensure the home has the right features to support their specific needs and daily routine. This may include adjustments to help them get around safely and independently, and adding comfort features to make their life simpler or more enjoyable.

Essential Room-by-Room Home Modifications

Home modifications for aging in place can allow seniors to live at home for as long as they wish. While every person has their own specific needs, here are some essentials to consider:

Bathrooms and Showers

Natural changes as a result of aging, such as stiff joints and muscles, reduced balance, and weaker grip strength, can make using standard bathrooms challenging, or even unsafe, for some seniors.

In addition, slippery, wet surfaces can increase the risk of falls and accidents during showers. Making the necessary bathroom modifications can help your aging parent continue living safely at home while maintaining their independence and dignity.

Some popular modifications include:

1. Installing a walk-in or curbless shower
2. Adding a shower bench
3. Using handheld showerheads
4. Installing grab bars for added support
5. Installing a raised toilet
6. Using non-slip flooring or mats

Here are some products worth checking out if you’re considering making bathroom modifications:

Moen 24-Inch Bathroom Grab Bar

Price: $28.98

Together with other aging in place products, adding grab bars to the bathroom can help make showers safer, particularly for older family members with balance issues.

Unlike suction grab bars, which can sometimes come loose, this set is wall-mounted and permanently fixed, offering sturdier support.

Features:

• Supports up to 500 lbs
• Made of durable stainless steel
• Corrosion-resistant finish
• ADA-compliant for safety standards

Pros:

• Provides sturdy support
• Suitable for wet environments
• Sleek, modern design

Cons:

• Might require professional installation
• Permanent fixture; may not be suitable for renters

Delta 5-Spray Dual Showerhead with Handheld Spray

Price: $114.94

This showerhead packs both a fixed showerhead and a handheld sprayer, allowing users to shower while seated. It also has multiple spray settings to help users adjust water flow without stretching too much or straining their muscles and joints.

Features:

• 5 spray settings for customizable water flow
• Magnetic docking system for easy removal and placement
• Includes both fixed and handheld showerheads
• Simple installation with standard fittings

Pros:

• Ideal for seated showering
• Flexible hose to help extend reach
• Easy to clean and maintain

Cons:

• May require professional installation

Yimobra Bath Mat

Price: $14.99

The Yimobra bath mat combines comfort and safety with its thick, non-slip backing. The cushioned surface helps reduce pressure on joints, while the non-slip backing prevents the mat from moving around, helping reduce the risk of slipping and falling.

Features:

• Soft foam for added comfort
• Non-slip backing for stability
• Machine-washable
• Available in various sizes and colors

Pros:

• Quick-drying material
• Lightweight and portable
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• May not provide as much support as thicker mats
• Non-slip backing may wear over time

Kitchens

A healthy and balanced diet is especially important for seniors. If your aging loved one loves to cook or occasionally prepares their own meals, it’s important to ensure they can do so safely.

Regular kitchens often require bending, reaching, or handling sharp or heavy objects, which can be tricky or even unsafe for some seniors.

Key senior kitchen modifications can include:

7. Installing pull-out shelves or drawers
8. Lowering or installing adjustable counters
9. Installing lever faucets
10. Adding full-extension drawers
11. Installing brighter lighting
12. Adding non-slip floor mats

Below are a few aging in place products you may use for your kitchen upgrade:

Rev-A-Shelf Pull-Out Shelf

Price: $633.99

Adding pull-out shelves or drawers can help keep essentials within reach. This organizer can be installed in the kitchen and may help reduce the need to bend or stretch, which can be especially helpful for persons with age-related issues like knee or back pain.

Features:

• Mounts securely to the wall
• Smooth-gliding mechanism
• Durable construction to support various items

Pros:

• Reduces clutter and improves safety
• Easy to install and maintain

Cons:

• Requires wall space for installation
• May not fit in all bathroom layouts

GE Cync Smart Under-Cabinet Lighting

Price: $45.99

Installing under-cabinet lighting helps illuminate kitchen workspaces to enhance visibility in darker areas of the kitchen, particularly at night. This lighting solution provides a bright, even illumination with reduced shadows.

Features:

• Many color options for customizable lighting
• Adjustable brightness and hue via the Cync app or smart home systems
• Easy installation with peel-and-stick backing

Pros:

• Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant
• Energy-efficient LED technology

Cons:

• Requires a smart device for full functionality

Bedrooms

A good night’s sleep is essential, especially for older adults. In fact, many experts recommend aiming for 7 to 9 hours of restful sleep each night. However, health conditions, poor night lighting, or trouble getting in and out of bed can make it harder for some seniors to sleep well.

Here are some changes you may consider for your aging loved one’s bedroom:

13. Installing bed assist
14. Adding nightlights or motion-sensor lights
15. Using adjustable beds

Below are a few products worth checking out for your next bedroom upgrade:

Saatva Adjustable Base Plus
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Price: $1,599

The Saatva Base Plus bed frame packs a ton of useful features, such as head and foot elevation, a massage function, and adjustable leg heights, which may help promote better sleep and support smoother movement when getting in and out of bed.

Features:

• Independent head and foot elevation
• Whisper-quiet massage with three intensity levels
• Four built-in USB ports for charging devices
• Adjustable height with included 8″ and 3″ legs and 2″ extenders
• Easy assembly with no tools required

Pros:

• Enhances comfort and support
• It may be ideal for persons with medical conditions like acid reflux and sleep apnea
• Convenient USB ports for device charging

Cons:

• High price point
• May require professional setup for some users

Stander EZ Adjust Bed Rail

Price: $159.99

The Stander EZ Adjust Bed Rail is a versatile bed assist rail that provides added support when getting in and out of bed. It can be adjusted in length and height to fit various bed sizes and provide sturdy support, which can be helpful for individuals with balance issues.

Features:

• Organizer pouch
• Can be folded down for convenient storage
• Includes a safety strap to secure the rail to the bed frame

Pros:

• Customizable to fit different bed sizes
• Provides stable support
• Tool-free assembly
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• May not fit all bed types

AUVON Plug-in LED Night Light with Motion Sensor

Price: $19.99

Adding a motion-activated nightlight in dark areas can make nighttime trips to the restroom safer for your loved one. The AUVON night light turns on automatically when it detects movement, helping reduce the risk of accidents or falls.

Features:

• Motion sensor with a 120° detection angle
• Dusk-to-dawn sensor adjusts brightness based on ambient light
• Plug-in design with no batteries required
• Compact size

Pros:

• Energy-efficient
• Simple installation
• Provides illumination without needing manual operation

Cons:

• Requires an available outlet
• May not be suitable for outdoor use

Living Spaces

Sometimes, natural age-related changes or progressing health conditions can require aging in place home modifications to allow a senior to live safely on their own. Popular modifications may include:

16. Using non-slip mats
17. Improving lighting
18. Using ergonomic door handles

Here are a few products to consider:

Berlin Modisch Lever Door Handle

Price: $45.73

Some door knobs can be challenging for seniors, especially those with arthritis or limited dexterity. An ergonomic door handle can help make opening doors less strenuous for individuals with limited hand strength or mobility issues.

Features:

• Ergonomic design that’s gentle on hands
• Smooth lever handle mechanism
• Reversible for right or left-hand doors

Pros:

• Comes with a door bumper wall protector
• Compatible with various door types

Cons:

• May require professional installation
• Slightly higher cost compared to some knobs

LIFX Smart LED Light Bulb

Price: $35.11

Proper lighting is crucial for seniors to navigate their homes safely as they age in place. The light bulb upgrade allows users to customize lighting settings, reducing glare and shadows, which can be disorienting and lead to falls.

Features:

• Adjustable color temperature from warm to cool white
• No hub required; connects directly via Wi-Fi
• Voice control compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit
• Energy-efficient LED technology
• Durable design

Pros:

• Customizable lighting to suit various activities
• Easy installation and setup
• Voice control for hands-free operation
• Reduces the need for frequent bulb replacements

Cons:

• Requires a stable Wi-Fi connection
• May not be compatible with all home automation systems

Entrances and Exits

Some homes have high steps, uneven floors, or narrow walkways that can be tricky for seniors to navigate. If an older family member plans to age in their current home, it’s important to make all entrances and exits safe for their specific needs.

Some important changes to consider may include:

19. Installing ramps
20. Adding non-slip treads on steps
21. Installing handrails on both sides
22. Installing motion-sensor exterior lighting
23. Widening doorways

Here are a few products that may help make entrances and exits safer for your loved one:

MILOOL Non-Slip Stair Treads

Price: $12 for a pack of five

Slippery steps can be especially hazardous for seniors, particularly those with mobility challenges. These stair treads feature adhesive-backed strips that can add extra grip to steps, helping lower the risk of slips and falls without requiring professional installation.

Features:

• Adhesive backing for easy installation
• Waterproof and weather-resistant
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
• Dimensions: 6″ x 30″

Pros:

• Simple to apply and remove
• Durable and long-lasting
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• May not adhere well to some surfaces
• Requires a clean surface for optimal adhesion

Threshold Ramp by HomePro Mobility

Image credit: https://homepromobility.com

Price: Get a Free Estimate

Adding a ramp can help support smoother access over steps, particularly if your family member uses a wheelchair or walker. This ramp offers a safer way to navigate steps for older loved ones or persons with limited mobility.

Features:

• Made of natural, high-quality wood
• Non-slip surface for added safety
• Supports up to 600 lbs
• Dimensions: 36″ x 32″ x 2″

Pros:

• Durable and strong
• Simple to install
• Suitable for various mobility aids

Cons:

• Requires regular maintenance to prevent wear
• May not be suitable for all door types

Motion Sensor Outdoor Light

Price: $19.65

Some seniors may have difficulty locating light switches at night. An outdoor, motion-activated light automatically illuminates when motion is detected, helping with both visibility and security in dark areas.

Features:

• Waterproof and weather-resistant
• Solar-powered
• Easy to install

Pros:

• Hands-free operation
• Energy-efficient

Cons:

• May not be suitable for some outdoor settings

Upstairs or Basements

Many older adults have trouble navigating steep stairs due to ongoing health conditions or age-related challenges like knee pain or arthritis. If your loved one’s current home has multiple floors, they might need some aging in place home modifications to continue living at home safely.

Here are some key ones to consider:

24. Installing stairlifts
25. Installing platform lifts for wheelchair access
26. Installing handrails on both sides
27. Adding step-edge contrast strips
28. Installing bright stair lighting

Below are a few aging in place products you may try:

Bruno Elan Straight Stair Lift

Price: from $3,500

Climbing stairs can be daunting, particularly for seniors with mobility challenges. Adding a stair lift can help seniors better navigate straight staircases. The Bruno Elan offers a smooth ride with a narrow rail design, providing a safe and comfortable way to access all levels of the home.

Features:

• Narrow rail design to maximize stair width
• Battery-powered operation ensures functionality during power outages
• Swivel seat for easy entry and exit
• Weight capacity of up to 300 lbs
• Limited lifetime warranty

Pros:

• Space-saving design
• Quiet and smooth operation
• Can be adjusted to fit various staircases

Cons:

• Installation may require professional assistance
• Not suitable for curved staircases

Promenaid Handrails for Seniors

Price: from $109.73

Some seniors may need added support to move around due to aging or health conditions. Installing handrails offers a steady grip to help them navigate different areas of the home.

Features:

• Compliant with ADA standards
• Available in various lengths and finishes
• Suitable for both wet and dry conditions
• Simple to install

Pros:

• Durable and rust-resistant
• Provides reliable support

Cons:

• May require professional installation
• Limited color options

Ecoglo Glow-in-the-Dark Stair Nosings

Price: $10–$20 per strip

Poorly lit stairs can be particularly hazardous for older loved ones. Ecoglo stair nosings come with a glow-in-the-dark design and can help enhance stair visibility in low-light conditions.

Features:

• Photoluminescent technology for nighttime visibility
• Durable and slip-resistant surface
• Meets accessibility and building code requirements
• Suitable for high-traffic environments

Pros:

• Long-lasting and low maintenance
• Easy to install
• Improves stair aesthetics

Cons:

• Requires exposure to light to charge the glow
• May not be suitable for all stair materials

Flooring

According to recent statistics, falls are the leading cause of serious injury among older adults. Most family homes are not designed specifically with seniors’ needs in mind. You might find uneven surfaces, unsecured rugs, or abrupt transitions between flooring types, which can all be potential safety hazards.

Here’s what you can do:

29. Install slip-resistant flooring
30. Smooth transitions between different flooring types
31. Remove loose rugs
32. Use non-slip mats

Here are some products worth checking out:

Gorilla Grip Rug Mat

Price: $19.99

This plush, machine-washable mat features a thick, absorbent chenille fabric that cushions your feet while providing a secure grip. It has dense fibers that trap water, helping keep the bathroom floor dry.

Features:

• Machine washable
• Non-slip backing
• Available in multiple sizes and colors

Pros:

• Soft and comfortable underfoot
• Quick-drying
• Durable and long-lasting

Cons:

• May require frequent washing

Joyhalo Anti-Slip Shower Mat

Price: $25

This extra-long mat is designed for bathtubs and showers. It offers a secure, non-slip surface with a stylish loofah texture. Its extended length provides ample coverage, reducing the risk of slips in wet areas.

Features:

• Made of high-quality PVC material
• Anti-slip backing
• Machine washable

Pros:

• Extra-long design for full coverage
• Durable and easy to clean
• Stylish appearance

Cons:

• It may take longer to dry due to size

Exterior

It’s also a good idea to ensure your loved one can navigate their home’s outdoor areas safely and comfortably. Here are some essential exterior aging in place home modifications:

33. Repairing cracks and re-leveling walkways
34. Using non-slip outdoor coatings
35. Adding handrails on decks and porches
36. Enhancing path lighting

Some products you may try include:

Outdoor Anti-Slip Floor Coating

Adding an anti-slip coating to outdoor areas helps improve grip, reducing the risk of slips and falls. This durable, anti-skid finish works well on various surfaces, including patios, steps, driveways, and ramps.

Price: $42.50

Features:

• Skid-resistant finish with FixALL Skid Grip Anti-Slip Coating
• Meets ADA standards for slip resistance
• Available in bright, vibrant colors

Pros:

• Quick and simple to install
• Compatible with most surfaces

Cons:

• Anti-slip coating may wear down over time

Handrails for Outdoor Steps

Installing handrails can provide sturdy support outdoors, particularly for those with balance concerns. This option comes with a U-shaped ergonomic design and quality metallic finish, making it perfect for use in various outdoor areas, including a front porch or entryway, walkway to the mailbox or gate, or gardening area.

Price: $32.99

Features:

• U-shaped ergonomic design
• Weather-resistant powder-coated finish
• Comes with screw holes and screws for convenient installation

Pros:

• Affordable price
• Comfortable grip
• Durable design

Cons:

• Occasional maintenance may be needed due to outdoor exposure
• Requires drilling, which may not be suitable for some renters

Smart Home Technology

Caring for an aging parent at home is never easy, particularly as their needs change over time. That’s why it’s essential to get all the support you can. Many smart home technologies include features that can improve comfort, safety, and overall quality of life for your aging family member. Below are some worth considering:

37. Using voice-activated assistants
38. Wearing fall-detection and medical alert devices
39. Installing smart thermostats
40. Using emergency alert systems with caregiver connectivity

Here are a few smart home products you may check out:

New Amazon Echo Pop

Price: $29.99

This smart speaker comes with a voice-activated assistant offering hands-free assistance with various tasks, including setting reminders, controlling other smart home devices, playing music, and making calls.

Features:

• Voice control with Alexa
• Compact design suitable for small spaces
• Bluetooth connectivity for streaming music
• Multi-room audio support when paired with other Echo devices
• Privacy controls, including a microphone off button

Pros:

• Affordable price point
• Available in multiple colors to match home decor

Cons:

• No built-in display
• Limited audio quality compared to larger Echo models

Honeywell Home Thermostat with Sensor

Price: $119.99

Adding a thermostat can help your aging parent adjust temperatures as they wish. The Honeywell Home T9 is a smart thermostat that learns the user’s preferences and helps maintain a comfortable environment automatically.

Features:

• Smart scheduling and geofencing
• Voice control via Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit
• Room sensors to manage hot or cold spots

Pros:

• Clear display with touch controls
• Saves energy by learning user preferences
• Remote control via smartphone app

Cons:

• Installation may require a C-wire
• Some features may require a subscription

Bay Alarm Medical Alert System

Price: Starting at $27.95

Bay Alarm Medical offers a wearable emergency alert system that connects seniors to a 24/7 monitoring center with the press of a button. Its caregiver connectivity feature allows family members to receive real-time alerts, ensuring prompt assistance when needed.

Features:

• 24/7 emergency monitoring
• Wearable pendant or wristband options
• Caregiver app for real-time alerts

Pros:

• Fast response times
• Water-resistant devices
• No landline required

Cons:

• Monthly subscription fee
• Requires cellular or Wi-Fi connection

Tips for Planning Your Projects

Planning aging in place home modifications can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re also caring for a loved one or handling other responsibilities. Here are some practical tips to help guide you:

Costs and Creating a Budget

Cost is often a key consideration for seniors and families. Common home modifications like adding grab bars, widening doorways, installing ramps, or updating bathrooms for safety can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the specific project. Start by listing the most urgent changes and researching typical costs for each one in your area. This will help you create a realistic estimate and prioritize upgrades.

Many seniors and families use part of their savings to pay for modifications. Some long-term care insurance policies include benefits for home modifications related to safety or accessibility. Review your loved one’s specific policy to understand what’s covered.

You may also look into financial assistance programs. Area Agencies on Aging, local nonprofits, or housing authorities may offer grants or low-interest loans to help seniors make changes. If you or your family member qualifies, the VA provides grants such as the Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) or Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) grants for eligible veterans. In certain states, Medicaid’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) may help pay for home safety improvements. Contact your local Medicaid office for more information.

Choose the Right Professionals

When making home modifications, it’s often best to look for contractors who are Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists (CAPS). This typically means the professional has been trained to design and remodel homes for older adults.

You can search online directories, ask your local Area Agency on Aging for referrals, or speak with your health care provider for trusted recommendations.

When Making Home Modifications Isn’t the Right Choice

While making aging in place home modifications can be very helpful for many seniors and families, it may not be appropriate in all situations, such as:

• Advancing Health Conditions: If someone has a medical condition that requires 24/7 supervision or specialized support services, it may not be safe for them to live alone, even with aging in place home modifications.
• High Cost of Renovations: Some families find that the cost of home modifications for aging in place outweighs the cost of moving to a senior living community.
• Home Limitations: Certain homes may not be easily or safely modified because of their design or space limitations.
• Changing Support Needs: It’s normal for seniors’ needs to change as they age. If you’re struggling to care for your aging parent at home, it might be a good idea to look for a senior living community that can support their specific needs.
• Social Isolation Concerns: Even with necessary aging in place home modifications, seniors living alone may still experience feelings of loneliness if no one is nearby to check in on them.
• Homeownership Feels Like a Burden: Many seniors find the responsibilities of owning a home burdensome. If tasks like household chores, repairs, or yard work are beginning to feel overwhelming, it may not be wise to undertake senior home modifications.

Alternatives to Aging in Place

If aging in place doesn’t feel like the right solution for you or an aging family member, there are many options worth considering, such as:

• Independent Living: Independent living communities cater to active older adults who want to live among peers without the burden of home maintenance. Although employees may provide light assistance, the main focus is typically on making residents’ lives easier and more enjoyable.
• Assisted Living Communities: In assisted living, residents usually live in their own private or semi-private apartments equipped with necessary safety features and 24/7 access to caregiver support. This arrangement allows your family member to live safely and independently, with the right support always available if needed.
• Memory Care: Memory care communities are specifically designed for people living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. If your loved one needs consistent supervision or specialized support due to an advancing memory condition, memory care can be a good choice.
• Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs): Continuing care retirement communities offer several living options in one place, allowing residents to move between levels of support as their needs change without leaving the community. This option can be a good fit for those who want to stay in one community as their needs change, but large up-front costs are detrimental for many people.
• Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide the highest level of medical care outside of a hospital. They are usually best suited for people who require full-time skilled care, such as individuals with complex medical needs or someone recovering from serious illness or surgery.

“The right home modifications can transform everyday routines, making it easier for seniors to move confidently and comfortably in their own space. But not every home or situation is suited for updates. Balancing emotional comfort with practical realities like health needs, costs, and long-term planning is key.”

StoryPoint Group

Let StoryPoint Group Be Your Guide

At StoryPoint Group communities, we understand the challenges seniors and families face when looking for the right support for their unique needs and circumstances. That’s why we believe you deserve all the assistance you need.

If you or someone you love could benefit from extra support services or simply a welcoming place to call home, we’re here to guide you on your journey.

To learn more about life with us, schedule a tour of a StoryPoint Group community near you or call us at 1-844-275-9990. We can’t wait to welcome you!