A house for the rest of your life – what to look for when aging in place

Guest article by Jason Lewis of Strong Well for Cherry Carson Church.

There comes a time when you start looking at homes not for their resale value or open-concept kitchens, but for their comfort, dignity, and longevity. Aging in place has become more than a catchphrase—it’s a personal decision to remain rooted, independent, and surrounded by the familiar. If you’re in the season of life where you’re thinking about the long haul, finding the right home is less about curb appeal and more about whether the home will support you as years stretch forward.

Level Living Is a Lifesaver

First things first: fewer stairs, fewer problems. As mobility evolves with age, so does the importance of having essential spaces—bedroom, bathroom, kitchen—on one level. Single-story homes aren’t just easier on the knees; they remove the constant mental calculus of where you need to be and how you’ll get there. Even in multi-level homes, consider if there’s a first-floor guest room that could double as a future main suite. It’s not about downsizing ambition—it’s about rightsizing reality.

Wide Hallways, Wider Possibilities

When you walk through a prospective home, pay attention to how the space feels when you move through it. Narrow hallways and tight doorways might seem like quaint architectural quirks now, but they can become frustrating limitations later. Wider passageways accommodate walkers, wheelchairs, or simply give you a little more breathing room. These small design features don’t just future-proof your home—they add immediate comfort and ease.

Let There Be Light—And Visibility

Aging eyes need a little help. Good lighting isn’t a luxury; it’s essential. Look for homes that are flooded with natural light and allow you to see clearly from room to room. Overhead fixtures should be strong and supplemented with task lighting in places like kitchens and bathrooms. Even window placement matters—large, low windows bring the outside in and keep you in touch with changing seasons, weather, and neighborhood life. That connection matters more than you might think.

Bathrooms Built for Real Life

Let’s talk bathrooms—not the glamorous spa kind, but the ones that work with you, not against you. Walk-in showers are a must, ideally with no threshold or a very low one. Handheld shower heads, built-in benches, and grab bars might not be on your dream-home Pinterest board, but they’ll make every day safer and easier. And if a home doesn’t already have these features, consider whether it’s feasible (and affordable) to make those adjustments without major renovations.

The Kitchen as a Safe Harbor

The kitchen is still the heart of the home, but it needs to beat a little differently as we age. Prioritize homes with appliances at waist height—no more crouching for the oven or stretching for the microwave. Think about counter space and how easy it is to maneuver while cooking. Flooring matters too: a surface with some traction could be the difference between confidence and caution. And if you’ve ever carried a heavy pot across the room, imagine doing that at 80—then look for a layout that minimizes those hazards.

Modern Conveniences, Minus the Surprises

It’s easy to underestimate how much stress outdated appliances can add to your daily rhythm—until you’re fumbling with a stubborn stovetop or a fridge that hums louder than it cools. As you’re touring homes, gravitate toward those with updated, energy-efficient appliances that don’t require a user manual from 1998 to operate. To safeguard your comfort long after move-in day, consider understanding appliance warranty options to protect against unexpected breakdowns and repair costs. Some home warranty plans even include coverage for improper installations or the removal of faulty equipment, giving you one less thing to worry about as you settle into your next chapter.

Smart Homes for Smarter Aging

Technology can be a quiet hero in aging-friendly homes. Motion-sensor lights, smart thermostats, and voice-activated assistants can help you live independently without feeling overwhelmed. Security systems, video doorbells, and even smart locks provide peace of mind—for you and your loved ones. A good home doesn’t just hold you physically; it supports you emotionally. The fewer things you have to worry about, the more space you have to enjoy what really matters.

Green Spaces and Quiet Places

Don’t underestimate the importance of outdoor spaces. A small garden, a manageable patio, or even a porch with a chair and a breeze can offer daily joy. You want a home that lets you be outside without gearing up like you’re going on an expedition. Bonus if there’s a walking path or park nearby. Nature soothes, and being able to easily access it will feed your soul in ways Netflix never could.

The Unspoken Asset Is Your People

Moving, especially later in life, isn’t just about logistics—it’s about emotions, memories, and energy. This is when your community becomes more than a holiday gathering spot. Whether it’s your church family, longtime neighbors, or the kind folks from your weekly book club, don’t hesitate to ask for help. People want to show up for you. They’ll haul boxes, bring casseroles, or sit with you while you decide if that old bookshelf still has a place in your new chapter. And more often than not, they’ll be honored to be included in your journey.

Buying a home at this stage isn’t just a real estate decision—it’s an act of self-care. You’re not just choosing square footage or floor plans; you’re choosing how you want to live. When you walk into the right space, it won’t just feel comfortable—it’ll feel like a place that understands you, one that’s ready to grow older with you, quietly and graciously. That’s what aging in place really means: staying rooted, staying known, and staying you.

Photo credit: Pexels

Jason Lewis is a personal trainer by day. He specializes in helping seniors stay fit, healthy, and injury-free. To make this mission possible, he created Strong Well to be able to share his tips.

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the Cherry Carson Assembly of God Church board.