While "home is where the heart is" holds true for millions of retirees who want to age in place, whether their homes are ready is a different story. Narrow hallways, steep stairs, and tub showers are major obstacles, and smaller design flaws are easily overlooked.
Remodeling a home to age in place can be cheap or expensive depending on your safety needs. A comfortable, secure setup typically requires first-floor living quarters, wheelchair-friendly hallways, roll-in showers, a short walk from the driveway, bright lighting, and slip-resistant flooring.
Some homes only need a few tweaks, while others require a complete layout overhaul. Not sure where yours falls on the spectrum? Take our quiz to find out.
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More on Retirement, from the Kiplinger team:
- 3 Questions That Reveal if You’re Actually Ready to Age in Place
- The Cost of Staying Put: Aging in the Neighborhood You Love
- The Rise of the 'Half-Back' Retiree: Why a Perfect Florida Condo Isn't Enough
- 9 Upgrades That Transform Your Family Home Into a Retirement Oasis
- What It's Really Like Living in the Margaritaville Retirement Community