Aging in Place: A Home Modification Checklist for Michigan Homeowners

At Harborside Builders and Remodeling, we believe your home should evolve with you. "Aging in Place" isn't just about safety—it's about maintaining independence and comfort in the house you love.

Whether you are planning for the future or making immediate updates, use this checklist to ensure your home remains safe, accessible, and functional for years to come.

Bathroom: Prioritizing Fall Prevention - The bathroom is the most critical area for accessibility upgrades. Simple changes can significantly reduce the risk of slips.

• Walk-In Showers: Replace high-threshold tubs with a zero-entry or low-threshold walk-in shower.

• Built-In Seating: Install a permanent shower bench or a foldable seat for stability while bathing.

• Handheld Nozzles: Swap fixed showerheads for handheld sprayers to allow for easy rinsing while seated.

• Safety Grab Bars: Install weight-bearing grab bars inside the shower and near the toilet (ensure these are anchored to wall studs).

• Non-Shatter Glass: Replace traditional glass enclosures with tempered or non-shattering materials.

• Slip-Resistant Flooring: Apply permanent slip-resistant strips to the shower floor—these are often more reliable than removable mats.

• Comfort-Height Toilets: Install a taller, ADA-compliant toilet or a secure toilet riser to make sitting and standing easier.

• Lever-Style Faucets: Replace round knobs with lever-style handles to accommodate those with arthritis or limited grip strength.
  
  

Bedroom: Creating a Main-Floor Retreat - Rest is vital, and the bedroom should be the easiest room in the house to access.

• First-Floor Living: If stairs become a challenge, consider a "downstairs conversion." We can help turn an existing office or den into a full primary suite.

• Bed Height Optimization: Ensure the bed is at a height where your feet touch the floor comfortably when sitting. Use bed risers only if they are heavy-duty and stable.

• Adjustable Bases: Invest in an adjustable bed frame to help with circulation and ease of getting in and out of bed.
  
  

Kitchen: Enhancing Reach and Safety - A kitchen remodel should focus on reducing the need for heavy lifting or reaching into deep, dark corners.

• Smart Cooking Surfaces: Opt for an induction cooktop or a stove with safety sensors and auto-shutoff features.

• Appliance Placement: Raise the dishwasher 6–12 inches off the floor to reduce bending, and place microwaves at counter height.

• Accessible Refrigeration: Choose "French Door" or side-by-side models that allow easy access to the freezer and fridge from a seated position.

• Slide-Out Storage: Retrofit lower cabinets with "roll-out" trays or pull-out drawers so you never have to crawl into a cabinet to find a pot.
  
  

Living Spaces: Navigation and Furniture - Clear pathways are the best defense against tripping hazards.

• Strategic Decluttering: Create wider pathways (at least 36 inches) to accommodate walkers or wheelchairs.

• Supportive Seating: Choose chairs with sturdy armrests to provide leverage when standing up.

• Power Lift Chairs: For those with mobility challenges, a motorized lift chair can safely assist in transitioning from sitting to standing.

• Cord Management: Keep electrical cords tucked behind furniture or along baseboards. Note: Never run cords under rugs, as this creates a fire hazard and a trip hazard.
  
  

Small changes today can prevent big challenges tomorrow. If you're looking to modify your Michigan home for long-term accessibility, we are here to help with expert craftsmanship and thoughtful design.

Contact us today for a home accessibility consultation.