"Aging in place" is a phrase that describes someone having the opportunity to remain in their home throughout their maturing years. It's about designing safe and accessible homes that allow a person to maintain their independence in their own familiar environment.

Instead of selling and moving into retirement villages or assisted living quarters, a growing number of older Americans are modifying their homes to meet their aging needs. These modifications can be as simple as switching to lever door handles and adding grab bars to more extensive remodeling that includes widening doorways for walker/wheelchair access and installing zero threshold showers. An addition that adds a first floor bedroom and bathroom to a two story residence can also add value to the property and many more years of independent living for the homeowner.

As a Certified Aging-in-Place specialist (CAPS), I would like to help you evaluate your home for present and future needs, to remove accident causing obstacles, and address inaccessibility issues. I encourage you to plan ahead for yourself or your loved one before a health event forces the need. Creating a safer environment with less mobility impairments can help avoid a fall or injury that leads to a health care crisis.