Most older people want to stay in their own homes. The right adaptations can make that possible - and prevent the falls that often trigger a move into care.
The High-Impact Changes
Some adaptations make a huge difference for relatively little cost.
Grab Rails
Where they help most:
- By toilet (sitting down and standing up)
- In shower/bath (wet surfaces are slip risks)
- On stairs (both sides ideally)
- At external doors (especially steps)
- By bed (getting in and out)
Cost: £20-£40 per rail plus fitting (£15-£30 per rail)
Reality: This is the single most effective adaptation. Grab rails prevent falls. Falls in elderly people often lead to hip fractures, which often lead to hospital, which often leads to care homes.
Better Lighting
Simple improvements:
- Brighter bulbs throughout
- Motion-sensor lights for hallways/stairs
- Night lights for bathroom trips
- Light switches at both ends of hallways
Cost: £5-£20 per light/switch
Why it matters: Falls often happen at night or in dim conditions. Being able to see is basic safety.
Remove Trip Hazards
Common problems:
- Loose rugs (remove or tape down)
- Trailing cables (tidy or cover)
- Clutter in walkways (clear it)
- Worn carpet edges (repair or replace)
- Door thresholds (ramp or remove)
Cost: Often free or minimal
Bathroom Adaptations
The bathroom is where most household falls happen. Wet + hard surfaces + undressing = risk.
Walk-In Shower
Instead of: Climbing over bath edge
Benefits:
- Level or low-threshold entry
- Can add seat
- Easier to add grab rails
- Carer access if needed
Cost: £1,500-£4,000 installed
Options:
- Full bathroom remodel
- Shower over bath conversion
- Walk-in bath (alternative)
Shower Seat
Wall-mounted fold-down seat:
- More stable than a stool
- Can be used as needed
- Various styles and strengths
Cost: £50-£200 plus fitting
Non-Slip Flooring
Options:
- Non-slip vinyl
- Textured tiles
- Non-slip mats (temporary)
Cost: £200-£500 for vinyl floor (typical bathroom)
Raised Toilet Seat
Simple but effective:
- Easier to sit and stand
- Various heights available
- Some with built-in rails
Cost: £30-£100 (removable), £200-£400 (replacement toilet)
Stair Adaptations
Second Handrail
If there's only one handrail, add another on the opposite side.
Cost: £100-£200 installed
Stair Lift
For when stairs become too difficult.
Types:
- Straight stairlift: £1,500-£3,000
- Curved stairlift: £4,000-£8,000
- Reconditioned options available
Considerations:
- Width of stairs
- Door access at top/bottom
- Power supply location
Outdoor Steps
Don't forget external steps:
- Handrails both sides
- Non-slip strips
- Good lighting
- Consider ramp if wheelchair possible in future
Bedroom Adaptations
Bed Rails
Help with:
- Turning over in bed
- Getting in and out
- Preventing falling out
Cost: £30-£150
Bed Height
If too low: Bed risers (£20-£40) or higher-profile mattress If too high: Lower base, or different bed
Ideal height: when sitting on bed, feet flat on floor, thighs roughly horizontal.
Commode Access
If nighttime bathroom trips are difficult, a commode by the bed may help. Not pleasant to discuss, but practical.
Kitchen Adaptations
Improved Access
- Pull-out shelves in lower cupboards
- Carousel corner units
- Items used daily at accessible height
- Step stool with rails (if still mobile)
Safety
- Induction hob (doesn't stay hot)
- Timer plugs on kettles/appliances
- Easy-grip utensils
- Lever taps (easier than twist)
Getting Financial Help
Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG)
Available for:
- Essential adaptations
- Means-tested (but not for major adaptations)
- Up to £30,000 in England
Covers:
- Bathroom adaptations
- Stair lifts
- Ramps
- Widening doors
Apply through: Devon County Council
Charities
- Age UK often has local grants
- Turn2Us grant finder
- Foundations (national charity for DFGs)
VAT Relief
Some disability-related goods and installations are VAT exempt:
- Mobility aids
- Certain adaptations
- Need to qualify and complete declaration
What Order to Do Things
Start With:
- Grab rails in bathroom - Immediate impact
- Improved lighting - Easy win
- Remove trip hazards - Free and effective
Then Consider:
- Second stair handrail - If needed
- Non-slip improvements - Floors, steps
Larger Projects:
- Walk-in shower - If bath is becoming impossible
- Stairlift - When stairs are too much
- Wider doorways - If wheelchair likely
Working Sensitively
Tips from experience:
- Involve them in decisions - It's their home
- Start with their concerns - "What worries you?"
- Don't do everything at once - Can be overwhelming
- Choose products that don't look "medical" - White grab rails = clinical. Chrome or coloured = normal
The goal: Independent living, not a hospital ward.
What I Do
I help families with these adaptations regularly:
- Grab rail installation - Properly into studs or masonry
- Bathroom modifications - Rails, seats, non-slip
- Handrails and ramps - Interior and exterior
- Small adaptations - Lever taps, lighting, heights
I understand the sensitivity involved and work to make changes that help without making home feel institutional.
Need adaptations for a parent's home? Happy to assess what would help most. Call 01392 964094 or get a quote.
Sam Hembury
Sam is the founder of Hembury Contracting, providing professional handyman services across Exeter and Devon. With years of experience in property maintenance, he shares practical tips to help homeowners tackle common tasks.
