16 Essential Aging In Place Home Modifications

Imagine a home where your senior loved one can age in place safely and comfortably, surrounded by familiarity and independence. With the right home modifications, it's entirely possible!

Many seniors wish to age in place rather than move into assisted living communities or live with a relative. A few key remodeling and home modification projects can make the home safer and more accessible for seniors aging in place for the long term.

Whether you're helping your aging parents or preparing for your own golden years, our guide explores 16 essential aging-in-place home modifications to promote independence and ensure safety, comfort, and quality of life.

16 Home Modifications for Aging In Place

Find different options for home modifications that can be made in every room of the house to create comfort, safety, and independence for older adults aging in place.

1. Add a Remote Caregiving System

Installing a remote caregiving system enables family members or caregivers to monitor older adults from anywhere, providing safety and peace of mind. JubileeTV is a perfect example of how a remote caregiving system can help seniors live independently and stay connected to caregivers.

Not only does JubileeTV facilitate easy communication with caregivers, it also simplifies the TV experience for older adults with features such as easy video calling, photo sharing, and easy channel navigation through an all-in-one voice remote.

For seniors who need a little extra assistance with the TV, the JubileeTV App allows approved family members and caregivers to control the TV remotely, adjust the volume, change the channel, or troubleshoot common issues. The App can also be used to set reminders for medications and doctor's appointments.

2. Install Grab Bars and Handrails

One way to help seniors live independently is to add grab bars in the bathroom and handrails along staircases. Grab bars and handrails can prevent falls and provide support when placed strategically near toilets, showers, and stairs to ensure stability and safety.

Grab bars installed in strategic areas help stabilize older adults when moving around and support them when they need rest. Handrails are also installed along any stairways (inside and outside) of the home to allow older adults to safely maintain their balance when going up and down the steps.

3. Improve Lighting Indoors and Out

Good lighting is crucial for proper night vision and to prevent obstacles, trips, and falls. Enhance lighting in hallways, staircases, and entryways, and consider adding night lights in bedrooms and bathrooms. In addition, ensure outdoor pathways and entrances are well-lit.

4. Remove Loose Carpets and Add Non-Slip Flooring

Loose rugs and carpets can be hazardous and are a risk to seniors who might fall or slip. You can install appropriate flooring. Proper flooring is an essential home modification for seniors aging in place to prevent slips and falls.

Install slip-resistant, durable, and comfortable flooring in all areas of the home. Non-slip flooring materials include hardwood, vinyl, or non-slip tiles to reduce the risk of falls. Installing linoleum flooring, for instance, is an option for people looking for affordable, non-slip, durable, and stylish flooring.

5. Widen Doorways for Wheelchair and Walker Access

Narrow doorways are a common theme in many homes. But they are difficult to get through, especially for wheelchair users, the elderly using walkers, and anyone who may be assisting the older adults with day-to-day life at home.

Widening doorways is a standard aging-in-place modification. As per the ADA compliance standards, aging-in-place needs a minimum door width of 32 inches to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers, making it easier to move around the house.

6. Add Access Ramps or Stairlifts

Access ramps or stairlifts can significantly affect individuals with mobility issues. These installations ensure that all areas of the home are accessible indoors and out.

Adding outdoor access ramps to the home's entryways and indoor passageways makes it easy for seniors who use wheelchairs or walkers to enter.

Indoor threshold ramps are a more comfortable and safer alternative to stairs for aging adults. Additionally, they allow seniors to transition smoothly between rooms and doorways with small steps or raised landings.

Installing a stairlift may be a better solution for older adults using wheelchairs or walkers. Stairlifts are safe and provide smooth transitions between floors, giving seniors aging in place independence and comfort.

7. Convert to a Single-Floor Living Space

If the senior is living in a multi-floor home, consider rearranging the living space so that essential rooms like the bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen are all on one floor.

This reduces the need to navigate the stairs and hallways and minimizes slip and fall risks.

8. Install a Walk-In Tub or Shower

For seniors aging in place, having the ability to shower safely is essential.

Install a walk-in shower during home modification so the senior doesn't have to climb over the side of a bathtub.

Walk-in tubs and showers with non-slip surfaces, grab bars, and installing a corner seat or bench option can greatly enhance bathroom safety.

Other additional tips to make the shower safe and accessible for the seniors include:

• Upgrade the showerhead to a handheld to make it easy to rinse soap from hard-to-reach places and make showering comfortable and enjoyable.
• Remove all clutter, bar soaps, and empty shampoo bottles from the floors to prevent trips.
• Install non-skid shower mats to prevent shower slips and falls.

9. Install Lever-Style Door Handles

During aging-in-place home modifications, consider replacing traditional door handles with lever-style handles. They can be installed on all interior and exterior doors.

These are easier to operate than traditional knobs, especially for those seniors with arthritis or limited hand strength.

Lever-style door handles will allow seniors to open and close their doors easily and comfortably without any challenges.

10. Incorporate Smart Home Technology

Older adults aging in place feel more comfortable, safer, healthier, and more independent when using smart and assistive technology in their homes, like smart home devices. Incorporating smart home technology can help improve the comfort and quality of life of older adults and give family members and caregivers peace of mind.

Consider installing some smart, innovative home devices for aging in place, such as:

• Smart lighting: For seniors with limited mobility or vision impairments to control their lighting through voice, motion, or settings.
• Smart thermostats: To automatically adjust the home's temperature for comfort.
• Smart home monitors: To monitor movement and behavior through motion detectors or cameras to help detect emergencies like unconsciousness and falls.
• Smart security systems: To add a layer of safety and monitor activity in the home (inside and outside).

11. Add a Raised Toilet Seat and a Shower Chair

Raising the toilet seat can provide additional support and comfort. These home modifications help to prevent accidents and falls in the bathroom. A toilet at a comfortable height is less stressful on the joints and, when combined with grab bars, can provide security, safety, and comfort to prevent slips and falls.

12. Remove Clutter and Clear Pathways

Keeping pathways clear of clutter and obstacles is essential for preventing collisions and falls for seniors living alone. Regularly declutter the home and ensure that all walkways are free from hazards. This will help to keep the seniors safe and give them comfort.

13. Install a Home Security System

A home security system is a key home modification for seniors aging in place. A comprehensive home security system can provide peace of mind for older adults, family members, and caregivers regarding safety.

Look for systems that include emergency buttons, motion sensors, security cameras, doorbell cameras, smart door locks, and video monitoring. They enable 24/7 remote home control by providing real-time alerts, live video feeds, or both.

14. Consider Bed Rails

If you want a senior aging in place to get as much comfort as possible in the bedroom, consider installing bed rails. Bed rails can support getting in and out of bed and prevent falls. They are especially useful for seniors who are aging in place, have mobility issues, or are prone to nighttime restlessness.

15. Lower Countertops and Cabinets

Lowering countertops and cabinets makes them more accessible for seniors using wheelchairs or those with limited reach. This aging-in-place modification can make daily tasks easier and more efficient.

16. Modify Closets for Easier Access

Accessible closets are required for more comfort in the bedroom. To make closets more accessible, install pull-down rods, adjustable shelving, and other organizational tools. These modifications can reduce strain and make accessing clothing and other items easier.

Resources for Aging In Place Home Modifications

Find the following resources you need for aging-in-place home modifications:

Tips for Hiring Contractors

When hiring contractors for home modifications, ensure they have experience with aging-in-place renovations. Check references, verify licenses, and ask for detailed estimates. Look for contractors familiar with universal design principles and understand accessibility needs.

Where to Find Financial Assistance

Various programs and grants are available to help cover the costs of home modifications. Check with local government agencies, non-profits, and organizations like AARP for resources and financial assistance options. Medicaid and Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits may also offer support.

Empowering Independence with Essential Aging In Place Home Modifications

Making your older adult's home safer and more accessible is essential for aging in place. Implementing these modifications can enhance their comfort, safety, and independence. Take the time to assess the home and make the necessary changes to ensure a secure and enjoyable living environment for years.

JubileeTV offers a great experience in a remote caregiving system for older adults aging in place. It can give peace of mind to family members or caregivers, knowing you can see, talk to, and support your senior loved one from afar.