8 Easy Upgrades to Make Your Bellingham Home More Senior-Age-in-Place Friendly

Nov 13

Aging in place is an increasingly popular choice throughout Whatcom County, and making just a few smart upgrades can dramatically boost comfort, safety, and independence for seniors. Here are eight practical and easy-to-implement home improvements, complete with shopping advice, installation notes, and tips for preparing your home for future resale.

1. Lever-Style Door Handles

Lever handles are much easier to operate than traditional round knobs, especially for those with arthritis or limited hand strength. They require less grip and a simple push or pull movement.

**Why It Helps:** Reduces hand strain and increases accessibility.
**Shopping:** Amazon – Lever Handles
**Installation:** Can be installed by most handy homeowners using basic tools.
**Resale Note:** Lever handles are appealing to buyers of all ages. They do not need to be removed before sale; in fact, they’re usually seen as an upgrade. When I do a light remodel of a home to optimize it for sale, I will typically replace all door handles and hinges, and I always use lever style ones when I can.

2. Grab Bars in Bathroom

Installing grab bars near the toilet and inside the shower or tub helps prevent slips and provides needed support.

**Why It Helps:** Increases safety in the most fall-prone room of the house.
**Shopping:** Amazon – Shower Grab Bars
**Installation:** Easy for a handy homeowner with a drill and stud finder; professional installation is recommended for tile walls.
**Resale Note:** If installed well and in location where they’re not out-of-place, grab bars can be left in place, but if you want the widest buyer appeal, opt for models that are easy to remove before listing.

3. Non-Slip Flooring and Mats

Replace throw rugs with non-slip mats and consider slip-resistant flooring in kitchens and bathrooms.

**Why It Helps:** Minimizes tripping hazard and improves footing for unsteady walkers.
**Shopping:** Amazon – Non-Slip Bathroom Mats
**Installation:** Simple for most homeowners.
**Resale Note:** Non-slip mats are easily removed for showings or open houses, while more permanent flooring can boost value, especially in wet climates like the Pacific Northwest.

4. Motion Sensor Lighting

Adding motion-activated lights in hallways, entryways, bathrooms, and bedrooms reduces falls by ensuring spaces are always well-lit.

**Why It Helps:** Seniors no longer have to fumble for light switches at night.
**Shopping:** Amazon – Motion Sensor Lights
**Installation:** Many versions are battery- or plug-in and easy for DIYers; hardwired options may need an electrician.
**Resale Note:** Discreet, attractive sensor lights can be left in place; temporary stick-on types should be removed for staging.

5. Raised (Comfort-Height) Toilet

A comfort-height toilet sits a few inches higher than standard models, making it easier to sit and stand.

**Why It Helps:** Reduces strain on knees and hips, preserving dignity and independence.
**Shopping:** Lowes - Comfort Height Toilet
**Installation:** Requires basic plumbing knowledge; many will want a professional installer.
**Resale Note:** Most buyers appreciate the added comfort; no need to change before sale unless your market strongly prefers standard-height fixtures.

6. Smart Home Devices (Voice Assistants)

Smart speakers and displays (like Alexa or Google Home) let seniors control lights, thermostats, and locks hands-free.

**Why It Helps:** Reduces the need to reach or move about and can integrate with emergency alert systems.
**Shopping:** Amazon – Alexa Smart Speaker
**Installation:** Simple, just plug in and follow setup instructions.
**Resale Note:** Devices can be unplugged and removed prior to listing; your home’s increased “smart” readiness is a marketable feature.

7. Adjustable Showerheads with Handheld Functions

A flexible, handheld showerhead makes bathing safer and more dignified for those with balance issues.

**Why It Helps:** Allows users to sit or stand while showering, reducing slip risk.
**Shopping:** Amazon – Handheld Showerheads
**Installation:** Usually a simple swap; no plumber needed unless your fixtures are very old.
**Resale Note:** Handheld models are seen as family-friendly and attractive; leave them installed for showings.

8. Entryway Ramp or Threshold Ramp

A threshold ramp at one or two steps (inside or outside) makes entries and exits easier for those using canes, walkers, or wheelchairs.

**Why It Helps:** Eliminates a common fall hazard and increases independence.
**Shopping:** Amazon – Threshold Ramps
**Installation:** Simple portable ramps can be set up by almost anyone; built-in ramps are best left to professionals.
**Resale Note:** Portable ramps should be removed before listing; built-in ramps should be discussed with your real estate agent, sometimes they appeal to broad markets, other times, they might limit the buyer pool.

Upgrading your home for senior-friendly living is an act of care, for yourself or loved ones. Thoughtful, easy installations add safety and peace of mind without detracting from future market value – a win for everyone, no matter what stage of life you’re in.