Staying in the home you love should be both safe and comfortable as the years go by. At Veteran Built Homes, we help Northern Virginia homeowners create spaces that support independence, reduce fall risks, and make daily life easier, all without sacrificing style. This post shares our top Aging in Place safety upgrades across every part of the home, drawn from our years of experience and trusted industry guidelines.
Entry & Exterior Improvements
Your home should be easy to access, no matter the weather or mobility level:
- No-step entry or ramp with slip-resistant surface
- Covered entry to protect from rain and snow
- Well-lit pathway and entry with motion-sensor lighting
- Large, visible, and well-lit house numbers
- Low-maintenance landscaping to reduce trip hazards
Doorways & Hallways Upgrades
Smooth, spacious transitions make moving between rooms effortless:
Minimum 36-inch wide doorways
Lever-style door handles for easier grip
Hallways at least 42 inches wide
Smooth, level flooring transitions between rooms
Living Spaces Upgrades
Comfort and safety should extend to every room:
Clear pathways at least 36 inches wide
Non-slip area rugs with secure backing
Easy-to-reach light switches and outlets
Rocker or touch light switches
Adequate, even lighting throughout
Kitchen Accessibility Upgrades
The kitchen should be functional for all ages and abilities:
Pull-down or pull-out shelving for easier access
D-shaped cabinet and drawer handles
Adjustable-height or pull-out work surfaces
Side-by-side refrigerator/freezer for improved reach
Lever-style faucet handles
Under-cabinet and task lighting to reduce shadows
Non-slip, low-glare flooring
Wider walkways between counters and islands
Accessible appliance placement (wall ovens, drawer microwaves)
Easy-to-reach outlets and switches
Bathroom Safety Upgrades
Bathrooms are one of the most common areas for slips and falls:
Curbless or low-threshold shower installation
Non-slip flooring materials
Strategically placed grab bars
Comfort-height toilets
Handheld showerheads with adjustable slide bars
Lever-style faucet and door handles
Widened doorways for mobility device access
Improved, glare-free lighting
Shower benches or fold-down seats
Pressure-balanced or thermostatic shower valves
Stairs & Multi-Level Homes Upgrades
If your home has multiple levels, ensure safe movement:
Handrails on both sides of stairs
Non-slip stair treads
Well-lit stairways with light switches at top and bottom
Add a stair lift if needed
Safety & Technology Upgrades
Smart solutions can add convenience and protection:
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every level
Easy-to-use security system
Smart home controls for lighting and temperature
Medical alert system if desired
Download our Aging in Place Home Safety Checklist
If you’d like to explore your own Aging in Place options, Veteran Built Homes offers personalized consultations and customized renovation plans to fit your needs, budget, and style.
Ready to make your home safer and more accessible? Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.