Most Homes Don’t Allow for Seniors to Age in Place
Just 1% of US homes suit the needs of aging adults, according to a recent survey
Feb. 13, 2025
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Most older adults want to age in place, but the U.S. lacks adequate housing stock that would allow them to do so.
Most adults over 50 say they would prefer to stay in their homes as they grow older, but U.S. housing is failing to keep up with these needs. Despite the growing senior population, most homes aren't designed for accessibility, according to HomeCare, citing data from a recent AARP survey. In fact, less than 1% of homes are designed to be fully wheelchair accessible, and less than 4% can be easily adapted for residents who have mobility challenges. Additionally, just 19% of adults over 50 say they feel extremely confident that their homes will suit their needs as they age.
“We need to find ways to make it easier to age in place,” said Deb Whitman, executive vice president and chief policy officer for AARP. “The ideal living situation is not only about health and safety, but also about joy, purpose and connection—whether aging in place means staying in your home, remaining in your community or simply living anywhere but a nursing home, having options is what matters most.”Read more
