September 22, 2025
Aging‑in‑Place Trends: What Upgrades Home Owners Actually Want
by Ashley Dupuis-Bohman,
President (Wausau Area Builders Association)
With rising housing costs and stagnant interest rates, home owners are increasingly wanting to enjoy their retirement years in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes. The “aging in place” (AIP) approach affords home owners the ability to make upgrades now that allow them to live independently in their own home for longer, regardless of age or ability.
In response, 73% of remodelers have indicated that AIP project requests have significantly or somewhat increased over the past five years, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). The two most common reasons home owners request these projects are planning for future needs (91%) and living with older parents (48%).
What do you think would be the most important home features to have as you age?
Bathroom Safety Starts with Smart Design
The bathroom is a top priority for AIP remodeling, with the three most requested upgrades happening there. The goal is to reduce risks and keep people safe by adding convenient elements. In 2024, grab bars were the most common AIP request, with 87% of remodelers reporting this job in the last year. This was followed by curbless showers (78%) and installing higher toilets (71%). Together, these updates make the bathroom safer for those with limited mobility, while also blending seamlessly into modern bathroom design.
Making Main Living Areas more Accessible
Beyond the bathroom, home owners are looking to make day-to-day movement easier. Wider doorways are a common solution, as 52% of remodelers made this change in 2024. This allows for smoother navigation with mobility aids, especially in tight areas like hallways. Another common improvement includes adding a bedroom to the entry level (37%) to avoid the physical strain caused by stairs.
Entryways to Welcome Everyone
The transition into and out of the home is another critical area. More and more, homeowners are opting for ramps or lower-threshold entries in places like the garage or front porch (44%). These reduce the need to step up or down and are particularly helpful for those using mobility aids. Inside, non-slip flooring is also gaining popularity (26%) as a subtle upgrade that significantly reduces risk in high-traffic areas.
While these upgrades can be straightforward, proper installation matters. Building professionals who have earned the NAHB Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist designation have received training on how to build or renovate a home so that the occupants can live in it safely, independently and comfortably during retirement.
Whether you’re planning for yourself or supporting an aging loved one, small steps now can help you stay in your home for years to come. To learn more or find a certified remodeling professional near you, contact Wausau Area Builders Association. You can also search the online directory at https://members.wausauareabuilders.com/active-member-directory.