Home Renovations for Aging in Place

For many homeowners later in life, living well means living comfortably at home. As people age, however, physical challenges may require changes to the house.

Whether you renovate for yourself or a loved one, remodeling a home for aging in place can be a smart move. Here are top renovation suggestions for older adults, average costs and how to plan for important changes to your home.

How to Pay for Home Renovations Borrow against your home equity or finance with non-equity options like personal loans.

If doorways are narrower than 32 inches, you may need to expand them to accommodate a wheelchair or other mobility device. A contractor would typically need to replace the existing frame and add insulation, drywall and paint. The job might also entail moving and rewiring light switches.

Levers are usually easier to grip than round doorknobs, and they don’t require a twisting motion. That can be especially helpful for people who have arthritis or other conditions that limit motion.

Average cost: $75 to $400 per door, depending on whether the project involves replacing existing hardware or preparing a new door for the hardware installation.

These heavy bars can help prevent falls because of slippery tubs, shower stalls and floors.

Average cost: $30 to $60 each at home improvement stores like Home Depot. Having grab bars professionally installed typically costs between $100 and $400.

Walk-in showers are a more accessible alternative to traditional showers with tubs.

Slip-resistant flooring can improve the safety of the home. Non-slip tile can be especially helpful in a wet space like the bathroom, while vinyl flooring offers a non-slip option that can weather years of wheelchair and walker use.

Average cost: $3 to $14 per square foot. If you don’t have a budget to replace a floor right away, make sure you at least replace or repair any damaged areas.

Even if no one in the home has an immediate need for a wheelchair, a ramp can eliminate the need to climb stairs to enter the home.

Average cost: $2,300, but can range from around $1,100 to $3,600 depending on the size and complexity. A portable wheelchair ramp is more affordable, from around $175 to $500 and up. Portable ramps come in a variety of lengths, and some portable ramps can be drilled into a step for a longer-term solution.

Regular countertops stand about 36 inches off the floor; installing new countertops at a more accessible 28-30 inches can make it easier for someone using a wheelchair or scooter to prepare food.

Average cost: $3,100, with a range between around $1,900 and $4,500.

If a home has multiple levels, an elevator or lift that attaches to stairs can help older residents move between floors.

Average cost: $7,000 for a stair lift, though prices can range from around $2,300 to $24,000. Homeowners can save by choosing a pre-owned option. A home elevator costs about $4,200 on average, but can range from around $2,700 to $6,000.