As more homeowners choose to stay in the homes they love, the concept of aging in place has become increasingly relevant. But remodeling for aging in place isn’t just about safety—it’s about designing spaces that are comfortable, functional, and aesthetically beautiful for years to come.
Whether you're preparing your home for the next chapter or helping a loved one stay independent longer, this guide breaks down the essential elements of a successful aging in place remodel—along with important features, design considerations, and frequently asked questions.
What is Aging in Place - and Why Does it Matter?
Aging in place or universal design refers to remodeling your home to fit your needs and desires as you age. A successful remodel supports this goal by removing physical barriers, anticipating future needs, and enhancing daily comfort.
Universal design is not just for seniors—many families and individuals with disabilities invest in features such as widened hallways and doorways, curbless or open showers, and dropdown cabinets to create a safer home that supports their functional needs and accessibility requirements seamlessly.
Aging in place remodels help homeowners stay safely and comfortably in their own homes as they grow older. By incorporating upgraded accessibility features, these renovations support independence, reduce the risk of injury, and eliminate the high ongoing costs of assisted living.
Elements of a Successful Aging in Place Remodel
A well-executed aging in place remodel is more than installing a few grab bars. It’s a thoughtful process that combines function, safety, and good design. A good design will not have you feeling like you’re in an institution or hospital but instead make you feel at peace in a beautiful space.
Holistic Planning and Personalization
Aging in place remodels should consider both current needs and future possibilities. That might mean planning for wheelchair accessibility down the line, adding lighting now to support less-than 20/20 vision, or reinforcing bathroom walls for future grab bar installation.
Customized Solutions
Every household is different and will require different accommodations. Some may need wider hallways or stair alternatives; others may prioritize an easier-to-navigate kitchen or safer flooring. Experienced design-build firms can offer suggestions or recommend renovations that not only facilitate safe independent living but also keep your home looking like a home.
Seamless Integration
Safety upgrades don't have to be clinical or obvious. With the right design approach, features like lever door handles, non-slip flooring, and curbless showers can be seamlessly integrated without sacrificing the look or feel of your home.
Key Features and Design Considerations
Wondering where to start with your aging in place remodel? There are a few important features to consider when planning your upcoming renovation or remodel.
Main Level Living
One of the most important steps in aging in place design is minimizing the need for stairs. Whenever possible, prioritize a layout that includes the bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and laundry on the main level. This significantly improves day-to-day living while reducing the risk of falls and injuries.
If a full main-level suite isn’t feasible due to current home layout, homeowners can explore other future-proofing options such as adding flexible spaces such as a home office that could later serve as a bedroom.
Curbless Showers & Accessible Bathrooms
The bathroom is one of the most common areas for slips and falls, making it a smart place to begin aging in place improvements. Removing barriers like shower curbs can make entry safer and simpler, particularly for those with limited mobility or who use assistive devices.
Upgrades like curbless showers, non-slip flooring, handheld showerheads, and built-in benches blend comfort and safety without sacrificing aesthetics. Reinforced walls for future grab bar installation and well-placed lighting also help create a bathroom that’s functional and fits your design vision.
Smart Lighting Design
Thoughtful lighting design is an impactful and affordable upgrade when planning aging in place renovations. The right illumination such as strategically placed under cabinet and counter lighting, stair lighting, and toe-kick lighting can enhance safety and support daily routines.
Installing a smart lighting system also adds convenience and independence. Homeowners can control lights via voice commands, smartphone apps, or motion sensors, making it easier to navigate the home without fumbling for switches in the dark. Combine this with a layered lighting plan and accessible switch placements to create a home that’s safer, more comfortable, and ready for the future.
Safer, Softer Flooring
Flooring also plays a critical role in facilitating safe and comfortable living. Smooth, slip-resistant surfaces like luxury vinyl plank, cork, and low-pile carpet provide traction while minimizing the risk of trips and falls. These materials are also softer underfoot, helping to reduce fatigue and cushion impact in case of a stumble.
To further support mobility, it’s important to avoid abrupt transitions between rooms—such as thresholds or raised edges—that can catch toes, canes, or wheels. A continuous, low-maintenance flooring surface and single level thresholds make navigation easier and give homes a more cohesive, open feel.
Accessible Kitchen Layouts
A well-designed kitchen for aging in place should prioritize ease of use, safety, and efficient movement. Consider lowering countertops or including varied-height work surfaces to accommodate seated use or changing mobility needs. Features like D-shaped cabinet pulls, touch-activated faucets, and induction cooktops can enhance both safety and comfort.
Easy-to-reach storage also matters. Pull-out shelves, drawer-style appliances, and lazy Susans reduce the need for ``excessive bending or reaching. Open sight lines and wider pathways allow for better maneuverability, whether you're cooking solo or sharing the space with family or caregivers.
Stair Alternatives
Stairs are one of the most significant barriers to long-term accessibility. If your home has multiple levels, consider options like a stair lift or even a compact residential elevator to maintain access to every floor. These solutions can support mobility while reducing the physical strain of climbing.
Even when stairs remain, proper design makes a difference. Add secure handrails on both sides of the staircase, ensure steps are evenly lit with overhead or step lighting, and choose contrasting tread materials to improve visibility can keep homeowners safe at all hours. If you have wooden stair treads have them refinished with a slip resistant finish or add carpet to them.
Smart Home Technology
Smart home features can enhance independence, safety, and convenience with minimal effort. Voice-activated systems allow you to control lights, thermostats, locks, and even appliances without needing to reach for switches or buttons. Timed routines and automation can reduce everyday strain while giving homeowners more control over their environment.
For added peace of mind, consider technology like fall detection sensors, smart doorbells, or emergency alert systems that can notify family members or caregivers in case of an issue. These tools are more than high-tech add-ons, they’re proactive solutions that help people stay safe and confident at home. Don’t fear the technology, with app improvements things are very user friendly.
Design-Build Remodeling: A Smarter Way to Plan for Aging in Place
Aging in place remodeling is about more than accessibility. It’s about designing a home that reflects your lifestyle, supports your daily routines, and evolves with you over time. A skilled design-build remodeler can help you bring that vision to life with thoughtful planning and seamless execution. By handling every step of the project from initial vision to final walkthrough, these experts provide a seamless experience during a potentially sensitive time.
At House to Home Solutions, we specialize in guiding homeowners through aging in place renovations and home remodeling projects with expertise, empathy, and attention to detail. Whether you’re ready to make small changes now or thinking long-term, our team can help you create a space that works beautifully for years to come. Schedule a consultation to talk through your goals, then explore the FAQs below to learn more.
Aging in Place Renovations Frequently Asked Questions
Why age in place?
Aging in place is an increasingly popular concept in which homes are renovated or remodeled to allow homeowners or multi-generational family members age at home rather than in an independent or assisted living environment. The right design choices support independence, preserve your routine, and reduce long-term financial and emotional costs.
One of the most compelling reasons to consider an aging in place remodel is the savings compared to assisted living. Moving to an assisted living facility can cost anywhere from $50,000 to $100,000 per year and increase overtime. Aging in place allows individuals and families to avoid the logistical and emotional costs of relocating. As well as maintaining your low interest mortgage.
What changes may be needed for an aging in place remodel?
Choosing the right home improvements to facilitate independent living is incredibly personal. Working with a design build firm to create the right strategy for your home helps ensure your future build keeps the visual charm of your home at the forefront, while improving its accessibility. Some of the most popular updates for aging in place remodels include replacing tubs with walk-in-showers, replacing thresholds with zero-step entrances, and lowering countertop heights.
What areas should be prioritized during an aging in place remodel?
Start with the spaces you use the most, such as the primary bedroom and bathroom, kitchen, entryway, and main living spaces. Bathrooms typically require the most updates to make them fully accessible and safe.
Should I remodel now or wait until accessibility becomes more necessary?
It is wise to begin remodeling early to make thoughtful decisions without urgent timelines. Prioritizing early updates also gives you more time to select thoughtful solutions and enjoy upgrades like better lighting, wider walkways, and no-threshold showers. Normally rushing to did this work when it is an urgent necessity leads to bad design and selection of materials. Leading to a more institutional appearance and making you feel less independent.
Will this remodel hurt or help my home's remodel value?
In many instances, aging in place features are sought after as buyers seek homes that work for multigenerational living or their own future needs. A well-designed, accessible remodel combines function and form through seamless integration.
Ready to plan a safer, smarter home for the future?
Whether you're just starting to explore ideas or need expert guidance for your next step, our team at House to Home Solutions is here to help.
