Updated March 11, 2026
Most older adults want to continue living in their homes and communities as they age. However, not all homes are equipped to help your loved ones age in place safely and comfortably. For some families, an independent living or assisted living community gives them the peace of mind that their loved ones can continue living the lifestyle they prefer – without worrying about home maintenance or other activities of daily living. But those options don’t work for everyone. Fortunately, there are many modifications you can make to improve the safety and functionality of a home to help your loved ones age in place more comfortably.
Because every home—and every person’s care needs—are different, the following list of modification ideas is a helpful starting point to get you thinking about ways to make a home more elder-friendly. We also recommend checking out the AARP’s Home FitGuide for even more ideas.
Add Traction
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that more than one in four Americans age 65 and older reports falling each year, but less than half tell their doctor. You can improve traction and help prevent falls by affixing non-slip tape to uncarpeted stairs and placing non-slip mats inside and outside the bathtub – as these are the areas where falls are most likely to occur.
Elevate the Toilet
Most toilet seats sit about 15 inches from the floor, which can be challenging for anyone who has difficulty moving between standing and sitting. If replacing the toilet with a taller model is not an option, budget-friendly toilet seat risers can add height without renovation. You might also consider installing a bidet attachment, which can wash and dry the user and typically fits most toilets at a relatively low cost.
Install Grab Bars
Grab bars are a common home modification that can help an elderly person keep their balance, avoid falling, or move more easily from sitting to standing. Spots like the bathroom, hallway, and by the bed are all effective locations to install grab bars. Similarly, if your home has stairs, ensure the railings are in good condition and wobble-free.
Check for Lighting Improvements
Adding extra lighting can make your home easier to navigate and can significantly reduce the risk of trips and falls. Walk through each room and note any spots that feel dim or create shadows. In many cases, you may not need new fixtures—brighter bulbs, stick-on lights, or simple motion sensors are often enough. For added safety and convenience, consider adhesive light strips on stairs and under cabinets, along with motion-activated night lights in hallways and bathrooms to guide nighttime trips to the toilet.
Declutter
Keep an eye out for any items that could hamper mobility or create a tripping hazard. Pathways should be clear and provide plenty of space to navigate without bumping into anything, especially if your loved one uses a cane, walker, or wheelchair in the home. The more free space, the better. Some common things to move or throw away include:
- Cords
- Pet food and water bowls
- High-pile/shaggy carpets
- Unsecured throw rugs
- Coffee tables, ottomans, statues, and other furniture low to the ground
It’s also worth noting that you may not have to handle these modifications on your own. If your loved one qualifies for PACE—which supports people who want to remain living safely at home and avoid nursing home care—certain home safety modifications and their installation may be covered through the program.
