Aging in place has become an increasingly popular choice among older adults who wish to maintain their independence and remain in the comfort of their own homes. However, aging brings physical and cognitive challenges that can make certain aspects of daily living more difficult. To ensure safety, accessibility, and comfort, it is essential to consider various homecare modifications. This essay outlines the ten most important homecare modifications for elders aging at home.

1. Installing Grab Bars and Handrails

Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults, and many falls occur in the bathroom and on staircases. Installing grab bars in the bathrooms, particularly near toilets and inside showers or bathtubs provides additional support and stability. Similarly, handrails on both sides of staircases and in hallways offer essential support for navigating these areas.

• Who Can Do It: Professional handymen, contractors, or occupational therapists specializing in home modifications can perform the installation.
• Programs for Fixed-Income Support: Medicaid waivers, local Area Agencies on Aging (AAA), and non-profits like Rebuilding Together may help cover costs for eligible individuals.
• Estimated Costs: Installing grab bars typically costs $100-$300 per bar, including labor, while handrails can range from $200-$900 depending on materials and length.

2. Improving Lighting

As people age, their vision often deteriorates, making it harder to see clearly in dimly lit areas. Enhanced lighting throughout the home is crucial. Bright, evenly distributed lighting in hallways, staircases, and entryways help prevent accidents. Motion-sensor lights are particularly beneficial as they turn on automatically, reducing the need to fumble for switches in the dark. Task lighting in areas like the kitchen and reading spaces also aids in specific activities.

• Who Can Do It: Electricians or handymen can install or upgrade lighting fixtures and sensors.
• Programs for Fixed-Income Support: Some utility companies offer rebates or assistance programs for energy-efficient lighting upgrades.
• Estimated Costs: Installing basic lighting fixtures costs $150-$500 per fixture, while motion-sensor lights range from $50-$200 each.

3. Eliminating Trip Hazards

Clutter, loose rugs, and uneven flooring are common trip hazards that can cause serious injuries. Removing unnecessary items, securing or removing rugs, and repairing uneven flooring are essential steps. Non-slip mats or rugs with rubber backing can also help minimize the risk of slipping. Ensuring that electrical cords are out of walking paths further enhances safety.

• Who Can Do It: Homeowners can often manage this themselves, but professional organizers or contractors may assist with larger tasks like flooring repairs.
• Programs for Fixed-Income Support: Non-profits like Habitat for Humanity may assist with floor repairs, and local senior services can provide guidance.
• Estimated Costs: Non-slip mats cost $20-$50 each, and repairing uneven flooring may range from $500-$3,000 depending on the scope.

4. Installing Stair Lifts or Ramps

For older adults with mobility issues, stairs can be a significant challenge. Installing a stair lift provides a safe and convenient way to access the upper floors. For single-level homes with steps at entrances, ramps are a great alternative. Ramps should have a gentle slope and be equipped with non-slip surfaces for safety.

• Who Can Do It: Specialized contractors or companies like Stannah or Acorn handle stair lift installations, while general contractors can build ramps.
• Programs for Fixed-Income Support: Veterans’ Affairs (VA) grants, Medicaid waivers, and local government programs may help cover costs.
• Estimated Costs: Stair lifts typically cost $3,000-$10,000 depending on the length and features, while ramps range from $1,000-$5,000 depending on materials and length.

5. Upgrading Bathrooms for Accessibility

Bathrooms are among the most hazardous areas in a home. In addition to grab bars, walk-in tubs or showers with low or no thresholds make it easier for older adults to bathe without stepping over high ledges. Installing a shower seat and a handheld showerhead provides added convenience. Raised toilet seats reduce the effort needed to sit and stand, which is particularly helpful for those with limited mobility.

• Who Can Do It: Bathroom remodeling contractors or companies specializing in aging-in-place renovations can perform these upgrades.
• Programs for Fixed-Income Support: Medicaid and non-profits like the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) offer resources for accessible home modifications.
• Estimated Costs: Walk-in tubs range from $2,500-$10,000, low-threshold showers cost $2,000-$7,000, and raised toilet seats are $20-$100.

6. Widening Doorways and Hallways

For older adults who use wheelchairs or walkers, narrow doorways and hallways can be significant obstacles. Widening these spaces allows for easier navigation and ensures that mobility aids can pass through comfortably. While this modification can be more costly, it greatly enhances the accessibility of the home.

• Who Can Do It: Licensed contractors with experience in structural modifications are necessary for this task.
• Programs for Fixed-Income Support: Medicaid waivers and state-funded home modification programs may cover some of the costs.
• Estimated Costs: Widening doorways typically costs $300-$2,500 per door, depending on structural requirements.

7. Creating a Bedroom on the Main Floor

Climbing stairs daily can be exhausting and dangerous for older adults. Converting a room on the main floor into a bedroom eliminates the need to use stairs frequently. Ensuring that this bedroom is near a bathroom adds convenience and reduces the risk of accidents during nighttime trips.

• Who Can Do It: General contractors or handymen can assist with converting spaces.
• Programs for Fixed-Income Support: Local aging agencies may provide grants or subsidies for such modifications.
• Estimated Costs: Conversion costs vary widely, ranging from $1,000-$10,000 depending on the work required.

8. Installing Smart Home Technology

Smart home technology offers various solutions to enhance safety and convenience. Voice-activated assistants, such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, allow elders to control lights, thermostats, and other devices without physical effort. Smart doorbells with cameras provide additional security by allowing users to see who is at the door without opening it. Emergency alert systems, including wearable devices, ensure that help is readily available in case of a fall or medical emergency.

• Who Can Do It: Tech professionals or electricians can assist with installation and setup.
• Programs for Fixed-Income Support: Some organizations, like AARP, offer discounts on smart technology for seniors.
• Estimated Costs: Smart speakers cost $50-$200, smart doorbells $100-$250, and emergency alert systems $20-$50 per month.

9. Adjusting Kitchen Features

Kitchens should be adapted to accommodate limited mobility and strength. Lowering countertops and cabinets makes it easier to access cooking tools and supplies. Pull-out shelves and lazy Susans reduce the need for bending or stretching. Lever-style faucets are easier to operate than traditional knobs, while induction cooktops minimize the risk of burns by remaining cool to the touch.

• Who Can Do It: Kitchen remodeling specialists or handymen with experience in accessibility modifications can perform these upgrades.
• Programs for Fixed-Income Support: Non-profits and state programs may offer grants for accessibility-focused kitchen renovations.
• Estimated Costs: Costs vary widely; cabinet modifications start at $200-$500, and full kitchen remodels can exceed $10,000.

10. Enhancing Entryway Safety and Accessibility

The entryway to a home is a critical area for ensuring ease of access and safety. Installing a no-step entry or ramp makes it easier for older adults to enter and exit the house. Lever-style door handles are easier to operate than traditional knobs, particularly for individuals with arthritis. Adding a bench or chair near the entrance provides a place to rest while putting on or taking off shoes.

• Who Can Do It: Contractors or carpenters can handle entryway modifications.
• Programs for Fixed-Income Support: State-funded programs and non-profits like Meals on Wheels may help with funding.
• Estimated Costs: No-step entry installations cost $1,000-$4,000, while lever-style handles are $50-$150 each.

Final Thought

Subscribe to our newsletter at newsletter@erinsagelessessentials.com for more information, tips and ideas on caregiving and managing the needs of our elders and senior loved ones.  Aging at home requires thoughtful modifications to create a safe and comfortable environment that supports the physical and cognitive changes associated with aging. From installing grab bars and improving lighting to incorporating smart home technology and widening doorways, these modifications address a wide range of needs. By prioritizing these adjustments, older adults can maintain their independence, reduce the risk of injuries, and enjoy a higher quality of life in their own homes. Proactively implementing these changes ensures that the home remains a sanctuary where aging individuals can thrive.