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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.
Widen doorways
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.
Average cost: $600 to $2,000 per doorway. Costs can vary significantly depending on the electrical work required.
» MORE: Renovate with a HomeStyle loan
Install lever-style doorknobs
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.
Put grab bars in bathrooms
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.
Install a walk-in shower
Walk-in showers are a more accessible alternative to traditional showers with tubs.
Average cost: $6,000 to $12,000 for a custom design, though prefabricated options can cost under $1,000. Expect added costs for a renovation permit, demolition and accessibility features like seating.
Replace flooring with slip-resistant material
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.
Add a wheelchair ramp
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.
🤓 Nerdy Tip
Veterans and others with financial need may qualify for ramp sharing and re-installation programs that help people who no longer need a ramp donate theirs to be installed on another home. Adjust kitchen countertops
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.
Install a stair lift or elevator
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.
🤓 Nerdy Tip
The National Association of Home Builders has a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) designation for contractors who help homeowners remodel to accommodate elderly loved ones. You can contact a CAPS professional to get advice on modifications, plan a renovation and find qualified contractors. How to plan home renovations for aging in place
- Combine accessibility changes with other renovation projects. For example, adding a zero-stairs entry into your home during a porch remodel can save money compared to investing in two separate projects.
- Keep your home value in mind. Many aging-friendly changes make homes easier to use for people of all ages and can increase the appeal of your home if you ever decide to sell.
- Conduct a walkthrough before making any changes. Note where the use of mobility assistance, like wheelchairs or walkers, would make it harder to do the activities of daily life. Small changes, like easier-to-use hardware like doorknobs or lightswitches that don’t require a heavy touch, can make a big difference.
- Make changes before they’re necessary. Planning for aging-in-place renovations in advance can help you avoid rush jobs and prevent you from having to make decisions while also handling medical challenges.
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- 1. Angi.com. How Much Does Widening a Doorway Cost? . Accessed Jan 27, 2026.
- 2. Angi.com. How Much Does a Walk-In Shower Cost to Install?. Accessed Jan 27, 2026.
