- Widen Walkways and Doorways
Ensure spacious clearance throughout your home for ease of movement—especially helpful if using mobility aids like walkers or wheelchairs.
Houzz specialists recommend 36-inch-wide doorways and at least 48 inches of clearance between kitchen islands and counters .
- Install Continuous, Nonslip Flooring
Use flooring that is consistent throughout and offers strong traction to reduce trip hazards.
In bathrooms and kitchens, opt for classic pebble tile or matte-finish mosaic tile with more grout lines for added non-slip grip.
For homes with raised entrances, consider adding a gently sloped ramp for seamless transition indoors .
- Move the Primary Suite to the Ground Floor
For those in two-story homes, relocating the primary bedroom downstairs can improve accessibility.
Ensure sufficient space around furnishings to maneuver, accommodate future medical equipment, and provide comfort even for bedridden residents .
- Install Curbless (Barrier-Free) Showers
Eliminate shower curbs to reduce trip risk and ensure smoother entry.
Nearly 40% of bathroom renovations in 2024 incorporated curbless showers, according to Houzz’s data .
- Add Bathroom Safety Features
Integrate grab bars, shower benches, and handheld sprayers for enhanced safety and comfort.
Ensure proper wall backing to support grab bars securely without risking damage .
- Enhance Lighting Throughout the Home
Poor lighting combined with eyesight decline can increase the chance of accidents.
Combine recessed ceiling lights, pendant fixtures, and under-cabinet lighting to ensure well-lit spaces.
Low-level lighting—like LED strips in toekicks—can softly illuminate pathways at night and reduce trip hazards .
- Use Easy-Grip Levers and Durable Handles
As dexterity changes over time, small knobs can become difficult to use.
Replace them with sturdier cabinet pulls and lever-style faucet handles for easier, more ergonomic operation .
