Not Ready to Move? Here’s How to Make Your Home Safer as You Age

A funny thing happened on the way to showing property: I hurt myself. Not just a little bump or a stubbed toe—this one was a doozy. While stepping from one concrete surface to another, I caught a raised lip and rolled my left ankle hard. Down I went. For the record, I wasn’t wearing anything questionable. I had on Skechers flats with grippy tread. Honestly, if I’d been wearing any kind of heeled sandal, this could have been much worse.

The ankle isn’t broken, but the aftermath at home gave me a vivid preview of what life might look like if I ever face serious mobility issues. I’ve never appreciated my stair railing more. Going up was manageable—I could pull myself step by step—but going down? That turned into a very ungraceful scoot. And carpet, which I usually love for its cozy feel, suddenly became the enemy. It was less forgiving underfoot than my harder surfaces. I found myself grateful for the walk-in shower in one bathroom because the thought of trying to navigate the tub-shower combo felt more like an Olympic event than personal hygiene.

Embrace the future by designing a home that supports peaceful and active aging, allowing for a fulfilling life at every stage.

As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES), I often talk with clients about what it means to age in place. But this minor injury gave me a real-time perspective. When you're healthy and mobile, your home feels just fine. But even a temporary setback can shine a light on how challenging day-to-day life can become in a house that’s not set up for aging.

Many of my senior clients want to stay in their homes for as long as possible. Even if the house feels a little too big, it’s familiar. It holds memories. But aging in place successfully often requires a few modifications. A bedroom and bathroom on the main level is a game-changer in the mountains. A walk-in shower isn't just a perk—it’s a necessity. Hard surface flooring in high-traffic areas can ease mobility (and yes, look great too). Secure handrails on stairways should never be considered optional. And don’t overlook the kitchen. Pull-out shelving and easy-access storage mean fewer contortions just to make dinner.

Selling and downsizing is always an option—and sometimes it’s the best one. But for many people, making smart updates to the home they love might be the right path forward. And if you’re in the market for a new place, it’s perfectly okay to hold out for one that already checks the boxes for long-term livability. Whether it’s for now or for later, there’s no harm in planning for a home that supports how you want to live—comfortably, safely, and with a little more ease.

Theresa Grant is a real estate broker and columnist covering Lake Arrowhead,

Crestline, Running Springs, and the surrounding mountain communities. Reach her at

(909) 442-1345 visit www.HomesInLakeArrowhead.com, and follow on social

@TheresaGrantRealtor. Theresa is a Broker Associate with REAL Broker Technologies.

DRE#01202881.