The problem many of us ignore
Too many people in their 50s, 60s and beyond put off changes because they think adaptations are expensive or complicated.
But everyday obstacles — a narrow doorway, a step up to the front door or a bath that’s hard to get in and out of — can quietly take away independence.
This guide shows practical, achievable steps to keep living comfortably at home.
Common barriers and simple fixes
Stairs and slippery floors are among the most common hazards. Small changes can reduce risk quickly.
Try better lighting, non-slip strips on steps and decluttering to create clear walkways.
Grab rails by beds, toilets and in showers can be fitted in a day and make a huge difference.
Room-by-room adaptations that work
Bathroom: Consider replacing a high-sided bath with a walk-in shower or fitting a shower seat and thermostatic mixer to reduce scald risk.
Kitchen: Move frequently used items to waist height, use lever taps and add a stable chair for rests while cooking.
Entrances and corridors: Low thresholds or small ramps, improved lighting and wider paths help if mobility is slowing.
Bedrooms: A bed at the right height, clear routes and bedside lighting reduce falls and make nights easier.
Short-term options vs longer projects
Short-term fixes are quick and relatively cheap: handrails, better lighting, non-slip flooring and raised toilet seats.
Longer projects — stairlifts, wet-room conversions or widening doorways — take planning and builders, but they can be life-changing.
You don’t have to do everything at once. Prioritise the changes that will make daily tasks easier and safer now.
Funding and where to get help
Many people assume adaptations are self-fund only, but there are options.
Your local council’s adult social care team can arrange an occupational therapist (OT) assessment and advise on help available.
The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is a long-standing council grant to pay for essential adaptations — contact your local authority for details and how to apply.
Charities such as Age UK and local community groups often offer advice, handyperson schemes or small grants.
Citizens Advice can also help you understand eligibility and next steps.
How to start — a simple five-step plan
1. Spot the daily struggles: note which tasks cause the most difficulty or worry.
2. Ask for an OT assessment via your local council or GP referral — their recommendations are often needed for funding applications.
3. Get two or three written estimates from reputable local tradespeople and check references.
4. Apply for available funding or request a social-care-funded solution if you meet criteria.
5. Start with the most urgent change and reassess after each improvement.
Keeping independence without going it alone
Adaptations are about staying safe and keeping choices — not losing them.
Friends, family and local services can be involved at whatever level you want, from moral support to helping manage contractors.
Taking gradual steps keeps disruption low and lets you test what really helps.
Where this leaves you
You don’t need to decide overnight between staying put and moving. Thoughtful, staged changes let many people remain in the homes they love.
If you’re unsure where to begin, your local council, an occupational therapist or Age UK are good first contacts to get a clear plan.
If you’d like a modern, single place to explore accessible properties, compare funding routes and find trusted tradespeople who specialise in older households, consider Homingo — a smart, practical tool that simplifies searching, planning and organising adaptations so you can stay independent at home for longer.
