Is Your Home Ready for Aging in Place? A Room-by-Room Assessment

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As more and more adults approach retirement age, a common question arises: where will I spend my golden years? According to AARP, nearly 90% of adults over 65 want to stay in their current home for as long as possible. This preference for "aging in place" isn't just about comfort and familiarity—it's also a financially smart decision. With the average cost of assisted living facilities in Minnesota ranging from $4,500 to $6,000 per month, making modifications to your current home can save hundreds of thousands of dollars over time.

But here's the reality: most homes weren't designed with aging in mind. The house that perfectly suited a family with young children may present serious safety hazards for someone with reduced mobility, balance issues, or vision changes. The good news? With proper planning and strategic modifications, your Plymouth or Maple Grove home can remain a safe, comfortable haven for decades to come.

At TruBlue of Plymouth & Maple Grove, we specialize in aging-in-place modifications and have helped countless Minnesota families create safer, more accessible homes. This comprehensive room-by-room assessment will help you identify potential hazards and prioritize modifications that matter most.

Why Aging-in-Place Assessments Matter

Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, with one in four Americans aged 65 and older experiencing a fall each year. Many of these falls happen at home and could be prevented with proper modifications. Beyond fall prevention, aging-in-place modifications address a range of concerns:

• Reduced mobility and flexibility
• Decreased vision and hearing
• Arthritis and joint pain
• Balance and stability issues
• Cognitive changes that affect memory and judgment

Think of this assessment as preventative maintenance for your future. Just as you wouldn't wait for your furnace to break down in the middle of winter, you shouldn't wait for an accident to happen before making your home safer. Preventative home maintenance has always been our philosophy—and that extends to planning for the future.

Entryways and Exits: Your First Line of Safety

The journey to a safe home starts at the front door. Entryways present unique challenges, especially during Minnesota's harsh winters.

Assessment Checklist:

• Are there steps leading to the entrance?
• Is outdoor lighting adequate for evening arrivals?
• Are walkways level and free of tripping hazards?
• Is there a secure handrail if steps are present?
• Can the door be opened easily with limited hand strength?
• Is there a covered area to provide protection from snow and rain?

Key Modifications to Consider:

• Install or improve ramps with non-slip surfaces and proper slope ratios (1 inch of rise per 12 inches of length)
• Add motion-sensor lighting at all entry points
• Replace round doorknobs with lever-style handles that don't require twisting
• Install a sturdy handrail on at least one side of any steps
• Consider a covered entryway to prevent ice buildup during winter months
• Ensure pathways are at least 36 inches wide to accommodate walkers or wheelchairs

Minnesota-Specific Consideration: Our winter weather makes entryway safety especially critical. Ice buildup, snow accumulation, and reduced daylight hours can turn a simple entrance into a hazardous obstacle course. Make sure your entrance has proper drainage and consider heated walkway mats for the winter months.

Living Room and Common Areas: Where Life Happens

Living rooms are often the heart of the home, but they can become obstacle courses filled with furniture, electrical cords, and uneven surfaces.

Assessment Checklist:

• Are pathways between furniture at least 36 inches wide?
• Are electrical cords secured and out of walkways?
• Are area rugs secured with non-slip backing or removed entirely?
• Is lighting adequate throughout the room?
• Are light switches easily accessible from room entrances?
• Is seating at an appropriate height for easy sitting and standing?
• Are frequently used items within easy reach?

Key Modifications to Consider:

• Rearrange furniture to create clear, wide pathways
• Remove or secure all area rugs with non-slip backing
• Install additional lighting, especially task lighting for reading areas
• Add rocker-style light switches that are easier to operate than toggle switches
• Consider furniture risers to raise seating height (making it easier to stand)
• Install outlets higher on walls to reduce bending
• Replace glass-top tables with solid surfaces to reduce glare and improve visibility

Pro Tip: Good lighting isn't just about brightness—it's about placement. Layer your lighting with overhead fixtures, table lamps, and under-cabinet lighting to eliminate shadows and dark corners where falls are more likely to occur.

Kitchen: Balancing Independence and Safety

The kitchen is often where seniors want to maintain their independence the longest, but it's also full of potential hazards—from hot surfaces to hard floors to hard-to-reach cabinets.

Assessment Checklist:

• Can you reach commonly used items without a step stool?
• Are appliance controls easy to see and operate?
• Is the flooring slip-resistant, especially near the sink?
• Is task lighting adequate over work surfaces?
• Can you comfortably reach into lower cabinets?
• Are pot handles positioned safely away from the edge of the stove?
• Is there adequate seating for meal preparation?

Key Modifications to Consider:

• Install pull-out shelves in lower cabinets to improve accessibility
• Replace traditional cabinet knobs with large D-pulls or lever handles
• Add task lighting under cabinets for better visibility
• Install slip-resistant flooring or add anti-fatigue mats
• Consider lowering the height of frequently used countertop sections
• Replace traditional stove knobs with large, clearly marked controls
• Add a comfortable stool or chair so meal prep can be done while seated
• Install a wall oven at a comfortable height to avoid bending

The TruBlue Difference: Our handyman services include kitchen modifications that go beyond simple repairs. We understand that the right modifications can mean the difference between independence and needing daily assistance.

Bathrooms: The Highest-Risk Room in Your Home

Statistics don't lie: bathrooms are the most dangerous room in the house for seniors. Wet surfaces, tight spaces, and the need to step over high tub walls create a perfect storm for falls and injuries.

Assessment Checklist:

• Are there grab bars near the toilet and in the shower/tub?
• Is the flooring slip-resistant, even when wet?
• Can you step into the shower or tub safely?
• Is the toilet height comfortable for sitting and standing?
• Is lighting bright and shadow-free?
• Can you reach toiletries without stretching or bending?
• Is the water temperature controlled to prevent scalding?

Key Modifications to Consider:

• Install grab bars at the toilet, in the shower, and near the bathtub (professionally installed into wall studs, not just suctioned)
• Replace traditional bathtubs with walk-in showers or walk-in tubs
• Add a shower bench or transfer seat
• Install a handheld showerhead with adjustable height
• Replace the toilet with a comfort-height model (17-19 inches vs. standard 15 inches)
• Add non-slip strips or mats in the shower and tub
• Improve lighting with bright LED bulbs and consider adding a nightlight
• Install lever-style faucet handles instead of knobs
• Add anti-scald devices to prevent water temperature injuries

Real Talk: Many of our clients initially resist bathroom modifications because they worry about the "institutional" look. The truth is, modern aging-in-place products are attractive and can actually increase your home's value. Today's walk-in showers, grab bars, and accessible fixtures look great while providing essential safety features.

Bedrooms: Rest Easy and Safely

Bedrooms should be peaceful retreats, but they also need to be safe spaces for getting in and out of bed, dressing, and nighttime bathroom trips.

Assessment Checklist:

• Is the bed at an appropriate height for easy entry and exit?
• Are pathways to the bathroom clear and well-lit?
• Are nightlights installed for nighttime navigation?
• Can you reach the light switch from the bed?
• Is the closet organized with frequently used items at accessible heights?
• Are there any tripping hazards like electrical cords or area rugs?
• Is there a sturdy chair or bench for dressing?

Key Modifications to Consider:

• Adjust bed height with risers or a new mattress system (ideal height is when feet touch the floor while sitting on the edge)
• Install motion-sensor nightlights along the path to the bathroom
• Add a bedside lamp with a touch-control or large switch
• Install a light switch near the bed or consider smart home lighting controls
• Reorganize closets to keep everyday items at shoulder-to-waist height
• Remove all area rugs or secure them with non-slip backing
• Add a sturdy chair or bench for putting on shoes and getting dressed
• Consider installing a ceiling fan with a remote control for easy temperature adjustment

Sleep Safety: Many falls happen at night when seniors get up to use the bathroom. Adequate lighting for these nighttime trips is essential. Motion-sensor lights that automatically illuminate the path can be lifesavers—literally.

Stairways: Navigating Between Levels

For homes with multiple stories, stairways present one of the most significant challenges for aging in place. While some seniors eventually choose to move their bedroom to the first floor, proper stairway safety is essential.

Assessment Checklist:

• Are there sturdy handrails on both sides of the stairway?
• Is stair lighting adequate at the top and bottom?
• Are stair treads in good condition and slip-resistant?
• Are stair edges clearly visible?
• Are light switches accessible at both ends of the stairway?
• Is the stairway free of clutter and obstacles?

Key Modifications to Consider:

• Install continuous handrails on both sides of stairways that extend beyond the top and bottom steps
• Add bright lighting with switches at both ends
• Install non-slip tread strips or replace worn carpet
• Paint stair edges in contrasting colors to improve visibility
• Consider a stair lift if mobility becomes significantly limited
• Add a strong, secure gate at the top of stairs if cognitive decline becomes a concern
• Ensure the handrail is round (1¼ to 1½ inches in diameter) for easier gripping

Stairway Reality Check: Stairs are often the deciding factor in whether someone can truly age in place. If you have a two-story home, consider moving the master bedroom to the first floor or creating a first-floor bedroom suite as a long-term strategy. Our team can help you think through these home modification options.

Laundry Areas: Often Overlooked but Important

Laundry rooms are frequently located in basements or cramped spaces, making them particularly challenging for seniors.

Assessment Checklist:

• Can you reach washing machine and dryer controls comfortably?
• Are you able to load and unload the machines without excessive bending?
• Is the laundry area well-lit?
• If the laundry is in the basement, are the stairs safe?
• Is there adequate space to maneuver with a laundry basket?

Key Modifications to Consider:

• Consider relocating laundry facilities to the first floor
• Install front-loading washers and dryers on raised platforms
• Add a pull-out work surface at comfortable height for folding
• Improve lighting in the laundry area
• Install a sturdy handrail if basement stairs are necessary
• Create a space to rest laundry baskets to avoid carrying heavy loads

Outdoor Spaces: Decks, Patios, and Yards

Minnesota homeowners love their outdoor spaces, but these areas need attention too, especially considering our climate extremes.

Assessment Checklist:

• Are deck and patio surfaces level and non-slip?
• Are there sturdy handrails on any steps or elevation changes?
• Is outdoor furniture stable and easy to get in and out of?
• Are outdoor pathways even and well-maintained?
• Is outdoor lighting adequate for evening use?
• Are garden beds and outdoor tasks at accessible heights?

Key Modifications to Consider:

• Install non-slip decking materials or add grip strips to existing decks
• Add railings to any outdoor steps or elevation changes
• Replace wobbly patio furniture with stable, armchair-style seating
• Create level pathways with proper drainage
• Install motion-sensor lighting for all outdoor areas
• Consider raised garden beds to eliminate bending
• Add a covered patio area for shade and weather protection

Minnesota Seasonal Note: Don't forget that ice and snow will make outdoor spaces treacherous for several months each year. Having a reliable plan for snow removal and ice management is crucial. Our ongoing maintenance services can take this worry off your plate.

Smart Home Technology: The Modern Safety Net

Today's technology offers incredible solutions for aging in place that weren't available even five years ago.

Technology to Consider:

• Video doorbells: See who's at the door without getting up or going outside
• Smart lighting: Control lights from your phone or with voice commands; set automated schedules
• Smart thermostats: Adjust temperature remotely and create efficient heating/cooling schedules
• Medical alert systems: Modern systems include fall detection and GPS tracking
• Smart locks: Eliminate the need for fumbling with keys; grant access remotely to caregivers or family
• Voice assistants: Control home systems, make calls, and set reminders with voice commands
• Motion sensors: Alert family members to unusual patterns or lack of movement

The Tech-Enabled Home: These technologies aren't just convenient—they provide peace of mind for both seniors and their families. They can also alert you or your loved ones to potential problems before they become emergencies.

Creating Your Action Plan: Where to Start

Feeling overwhelmed? That's completely normal. You don't need to tackle everything at once. Here's how to prioritize:

Phase 1: Safety First (Do These Now)

• Install grab bars in bathrooms
• Improve lighting throughout the home
• Remove tripping hazards (loose rugs, electrical cords)
• Add handrails to all stairways
• Ensure clear pathways throughout the home

Phase 2: Accessibility Improvements (Within 6-12 Months)

• Consider bathroom remodeling (walk-in shower, comfort-height toilet)
• Install lever-style door handles throughout
• Improve kitchen accessibility
• Add smart home technology for safety monitoring

Phase 3: Long-Term Modifications (1-3 Years)

• Major renovations like stair lifts or elevator installation
• First-floor bedroom suite conversion
• Widening doorways for wheelchair access
• Comprehensive home automation systems

The key is to think of these modifications as investments in your future independence and safety, not just expenses. Deferred maintenance and delayed modifications often cost more in the long run—both financially and in terms of quality of life.

When to Hire Professionals vs. DIY

Some aging-in-place modifications are great DIY projects, while others absolutely require professional expertise. Here's a quick guide:

DIY-Friendly Projects:

• Installing nightlights and improving lighting (lamp additions)
• Removing area rugs and rearranging furniture
• Organizing closets and cabinets for better accessibility
• Adding non-slip strips to stairs and bathtubs
• Installing lever door handles (if you're handy)

Hire a Professional For:

• Installing grab bars (must be secured into wall studs, not just drywall)
• Bathroom remodeling (walk-in showers, new toilets)
• Any electrical work (new outlets, lighting installation)
• Stair lifts and accessibility ramps
• Doorway widening and structural modifications
• Kitchen remodeling and cabinet modifications

We've written before about when to DIY and when to call a handyman, and aging-in-place modifications are an area where professional expertise is usually worth the investment. Improperly installed grab bars or accessibility features can create a false sense of security and potentially cause injuries.

Don't Wait for an Accident to Happen

Here's the hard truth: most families don't think about aging-in-place modifications until after a fall, injury, or health scare. By then, modifications are done in crisis mode, often while coordinating with hospital discharge planners and rushing to make the home safe for an immediate return.

The families who have the best aging-in-place experiences are those who plan ahead. They make modifications gradually, before they're desperately needed. They think about the future while they're still healthy and have time to research options, compare costs, and make thoughtful decisions.

If you're reading this article, you're already ahead of the curve. You're thinking proactively about your future or the future of a loved one. That's commendable—and it puts you in a much better position to age in place successfully.

How TruBlue Can Help

At TruBlue of Plymouth & Maple Grove, we've built our reputation on helping Minnesota homeowners create safer, more accessible homes. Our experienced Tru-Pro® Technicians are background-checked, insured professionals who understand both the technical requirements and the emotional aspects of aging-in-place modifications.

We offer:

• Free home safety assessments to identify potential hazards and modification opportunities
• Senior home modification services including grab bar installation, bathroom remodeling, accessibility improvements, and more
• Handyman services for everything from minor repairs to major projects
• Home Ally Maintenance Plans to ensure your home stays in top condition with regular preventative maintenance

We understand that every home and every senior is different. That's why we take the time to understand your specific needs, mobility challenges, and long-term goals before recommending modifications. We're not here to oversell you on unnecessary changes—we're here to help you create a home where you can live safely and independently for as long as possible.

Whether you need a comprehensive aging-in-place renovation or you're just ready to install grab bars and improve lighting, we're here to help. Our team serves Plymouth, Maple Grove, Minnetonka, Hopkins, Osseo, Brooklyn Park, Golden Valley, Crystal, New Hope, Champlin, Dayton, and surrounding Minnesota communities.

Take the First Step to Aging-In-Place Today

Aging in place isn't just possible—it's a realistic goal for most people with proper planning and the right modifications. The question isn't whether your home can be made safer and more accessible; it's whether you're ready to take action before it becomes urgent.

Start with this assessment. Walk through your home with fresh eyes and a critical perspective. Imagine navigating your space with reduced mobility, balance challenges, or vision changes. Where are the hazards? What simple changes could make a big difference?

Then take action. Even if you start with just a few modifications—adding grab bars, improving lighting, or removing tripping hazards—you're moving in the right direction. Every safety improvement you make today is an investment in your future independence and peace of mind.

Ready to get started? Contact TruBlue of Plymouth & Maple Grove at (763) 400-3748 or request a free consultation online. Let us help you create a home where you can age safely, comfortably, and independently for years to come.

TruBlue of Plymouth & Maple Grove is a certified Senior Home Safety Specialist providing handyman, home maintenance, and senior modification services throughout the Twin Cities metro area. We're proud to help Minnesota families create safer homes for aging in place.