Home Modifications for Aging in Place: A Canadian Accessibility Checklist

Aging in place — remaining in your own home as you age rather than transitioning to assisted living — is the preference of the vast majority of older Canadians. Making a home genuinely safe and accessible for aging in place involves both equipment and some structural modifications. This checklist covers the most impactful changes, from no-cost adjustments to more significant investments.

Entryway and Exterior

• Install a portable ramp or threshold ramp over any steps at home entry points
• Ensure exterior lighting is adequate for night-time entry — motion-sensor lights at the entry point reduce fall risk
• Consider a handrail on both sides of any exterior steps
• Install a keypad door lock to eliminate the need to fumble with keys at the door

Hallways and Doorways

• Remove scatter rugs and low-profile obstacles from walkways
• Widen doorways if wheelchair or mobility scooter access is needed (standard minimum: 80 cm; recommended: 90 cm)
• Install offset hinges on existing doors to gain a few centimetres of clearance without widening frames
• Ensure hallway lighting is consistent throughout — pools of darkness create trip hazards

Bathroom — The Highest Priority Room

• Install grab bars beside the toilet and in the shower/tub area (wall-mounted, into studs)
• Add a shower chair or bench for seated bathing
• Fit a raised toilet seat if current toilet height is challenging
• Use non-slip bath mats inside and outside the tub/shower
• Install a handheld shower head — allows bathing while seated and gives more control
• Consider a comfort-height toilet (ADA height: 43-48 cm) if renovation is planned

Bedroom

• Ensure the bed is at a height that allows feet to rest flat on the floor when sitting on the edge
• Add a bed rail on one or both sides for support when changing position or rising from bed
• Place a nightlight between bedroom and bathroom for safe navigation at night
• Position the telephone or personal alert device within arm's reach of the bed

Living Areas

• Arrange furniture to create clear pathways at least 90 cm wide for wheelchair or walker access
• Raise low seating surfaces — sofa raisers can lift standard sofas to a more accessible height
• Consider a power lift recliner as the primary seating for a senior who finds rising from a standard chair difficult
• Ensure phone and emergency contact numbers are easily visible and accessible

Frequently Asked Questions