Install a bench and grab bars in your bathtub, making it easier to get in and out. Image: TamuT/Shutterstock.com
By: FEDweek StaffMany people naturally want to age in place rather than move to an assisted living facility or another living arrangement as they age. Yet, they may be living in a home that is ill-suited to mobility and other issues that may arise, making living there difficult and even potentially dangerous; the decision to move in effect is forced on them.
Before you reach that point, consider making these improvements that can extend the home’s useful life for you:
* Install a bench and grab bars in your bathtub, making it easier to get in and out.
* Replace doorknobs, cabinet handles, and faucets with items that have been designed for the elderly. They are easier to grip and turn.
* If making major alterations, install doorways at least 36 inches across and widen hallways so they are wheelchair accessible.
Even if you choose to sell the house at some point, such amenities will add value to your house as America ages.
Those who want to continue living in their homes as long as possible may want to consider more extensive home improvements such as bathroom renovations and even room additions, according to a report by the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University.
It said following a nationwide housing survey, just 3.5 percent of homes had features such as grab-bars or handrails in the bathrooms, extra-wide hallways and doors, and a bedroom on the entry level potentially needed for those with conditions such as difficulties with walking or self-care.
“Given that mobility and other difficulties increase with age, many older homeowners must make accessibility improvements if they want to age in place. Among owners reporting remodeling activity, 10 percent of those aged 65–79 and 14 percent of those age 80 and over undertook at least one home project intended to improve accessibility,” it said.
“Of those older homeowners that can afford to make improvements, most pay for the projects from savings,” the report added. “Among households age 50 and over reporting any type of home project […], 66 percent of the expenditures came from cash savings. In contrast, cash-out refinances or home equity loans and lines of credit provided only 9 percent of the funds expended for home projects.”
Next Steps
Aging in place is not just about installing a few grab bars—it requires planning, assessment, and sometimes strategic investment. Before beginning any major work, consider having your home evaluated by a certified aging-in-place specialist or occupational therapist.
Technology can also play an important role: smart lighting that turns on automatically (night lights!), fall-detection devices, voice-activated assistants, and remote monitoring tools can substantially increase safety and independence.
Don’t sleep on state home-modification grants, VA programs, Medicaid waiver programs, and certain tax deductions or medical-expense write-offs that can help offset costs.
Finally, remember that aging in place should include planning for caregivers and anticipating future needs beyond mobility, such as cognitive or sensory changes. And for some homes—or some health situations—staying put may eventually become too costly or unsafe. In those cases, exploring senior-friendly housing, assisted-living options, or moving closer to family may offer better long-term comfort and support.
By thinking ahead, leveraging available resources, and making thoughtful upgrades, you can extend the livability of your home and maintain independence for as long as possible.
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