More than 75% of adults over 50 want to remain in their current homes as they age, according to AARP’s 2024 Home and Community Preferences Survey. For homeowners across the Denver metro area, that goal is within reach, but it often requires some thoughtful construction work to make a home truly safe and comfortable for the long haul.

Get a free quote on your aging-in-place home modification project from Faros Construction.

Whether you are planning ahead for yourself, preparing a home for aging parents, or just looking to make your property more livable for all ages, this guide breaks down the most impactful modifications Denver homeowners should consider. We will cover specific upgrades, which ones boost resale value, and Colorado-specific grants and tax credits that can help fund your project.

What Are Aging-in-Place Home Modifications?

Aging-in-place home modifications are structural or design changes made to a residence so that occupants can live safely and independently as their mobility or physical needs change over time. These modifications range from simple additions like grab bars and lever-style door handles to larger construction projects such as widening doorways, building wheelchair ramps, or converting an upstairs bedroom into a first-floor suite.

The goal is straightforward: remove barriers inside and around the home that could cause falls, restrict movement, or make daily tasks difficult. For Denver homeowners, these projects also need to account for local building codes, Colorado’s freeze-thaw climate, and the specific architectural styles common in neighborhoods from Highlands Ranch to Arvada.

Bathroom Accessibility: The Most Common Starting Point

Bathrooms are where most aging-in-place projects begin, and for good reason. The CDC reports that roughly 80% of falls among older adults happen in the bathroom. Wet surfaces, high tub walls, and cramped layouts all create hazards that a targeted remodel can eliminate.

Here are the most requested bathroom modifications for aging in place:

• Walk-in shower conversions: Replacing a standard bathtub with a zero-threshold (curbless) walk-in shower removes the need to step over a barrier. A built-in bench seat and handheld showerhead make showering easier for anyone with limited mobility. This is one of the highest-impact changes you can make.
• Grab bar installation: Professionally installed grab bars near the toilet, inside the shower, and alongside the vanity provide stable support. ADA guidelines recommend bars that can support at least 250 pounds, and placement matters. A contractor who understands universal design will position them at the right heights and angles.
• Non-slip flooring: Textured tile, slip-resistant vinyl, or treated concrete flooring dramatically reduces fall risk on wet surfaces.
• Comfort-height toilets: A 17- to 19-inch seat height (compared to the standard 15 inches) makes sitting down and standing up significantly easier.
• Wider bathroom doorways: Many older Denver homes have 24- to 28-inch bathroom doors that cannot accommodate a wheelchair or walker. Widening to 36 inches (the ADA standard) is a relatively quick structural change that opens up accessibility throughout the home.

If you are already considering a bathroom update, combining accessibility upgrades with your remodel is the most efficient approach. Our complete bathroom remodel guide walks through the full planning process, and our bathroom remodeling services cover everything from design through final inspection.

Doorway Widening and Hallway Modifications

Standard interior doorways in homes built before the 1990s are typically 28 to 30 inches wide. That is not enough space for a wheelchair (which needs a minimum 32-inch clear opening) or even for someone using a walker comfortably.

Widening doorways to 36 inches is one of the most practical aging-in-place modifications. The work involves reframing the rough opening, adjusting the header (and sometimes adding a new one), patching drywall, and installing a wider door and trim. In most cases, this can be done room by room without disrupting the rest of the house.

Related hallway modifications include:

• Lever-style door handles: These replace round knobs that can be difficult to grip for anyone with arthritis or limited hand strength.
• Pocket doors or barn-style sliding doors: These eliminate the swing arc of a traditional door, freeing up floor space and making it easier to navigate with a mobility device.
• Hallway lighting: Motion-activated LED lights along hallways and at the top and bottom of stairs reduce fall risk during nighttime navigation.

An experienced home builder can assess your floor plan and recommend which doorways to prioritize based on the daily traffic patterns in your household.

Ramp Construction and Entryway Access

Getting in and out of the house safely is just as important as what happens inside. Many Denver homes have front steps, raised porches, or uneven walkways that become obstacles when mobility changes.

A well-built wheelchair ramp or gently graded walkway solves this problem. The ADA recommends a 1:12 slope ratio, meaning for every inch of height, the ramp should extend 12 inches in length. For a home with a 24-inch front step, that translates to a 24-foot ramp, which is why design and placement require careful planning.

Options for entryway accessibility include:

• Concrete ramps: Permanent, low-maintenance, and a natural fit with Denver’s architectural styles. Concrete ramps can be finished with decorative textures or colored to match existing pathways. Our concrete contracting team builds ramps, walkways, and patios engineered for Colorado’s climate.
• Wood or composite ramps: A good choice when the ramp connects to an existing deck or porch. Composite materials require less upkeep and hold up well against Denver’s UV exposure and temperature swings.
• Graded walkways: When the elevation change is modest, regrading the walkway to a gentle slope can eliminate the need for a ramp entirely. This often looks the most natural and integrates well with landscaping.

All ramp construction in the Denver metro area must meet local building codes and, in many neighborhoods, HOA guidelines. Permitting requirements vary by city, so it is important to work with a contractor who handles permits across the metro area.

First-Floor Bedroom and Living Additions

For homeowners in two-story Denver homes, stairs can eventually become the biggest barrier to staying put. A first-floor bedroom addition, sometimes called a “main-floor suite,” puts the bedroom, bathroom, and laundry all on one level.

This type of project may involve:

• Converting a ground-floor den, formal dining room, or unused office into a bedroom
• Building a small addition onto the back or side of the home
• Adding a full or three-quarter bathroom adjacent to the new bedroom
• Relocating laundry hookups to the first floor

First-floor suites are one of the most valuable aging-in-place modifications because they serve double duty: they make the home functional for aging occupants and they add significant square footage and appeal for future buyers. If you are considering an addition, our guide on choosing a home addition contractor in Denver covers what to look for and what to expect during the process.

Ready to discuss your aging-in-place project? Contact Faros Construction for a free consultation.

Non-Slip Flooring and Surface Upgrades

Flooring plays a bigger role in home safety than most people realize. Slick tile, loose rugs, uneven transitions between rooms, and worn carpet edges are all common fall hazards.

When choosing flooring for an aging-in-place remodel, consider:

• Textured porcelain or ceramic tile: High slip resistance ratings (look for a coefficient of friction above 0.60) and easy to clean. Works well in bathrooms, kitchens, and entryways.
• Luxury vinyl plank (LVP): Comfortable underfoot, water-resistant, and available in styles that mimic hardwood. LVP is forgiving on joints and easy to maintain.
• Treated concrete: Especially relevant for basements, garages, and covered porches. A non-slip sealant or textured finish on concrete surfaces provides excellent traction.
• Flush transitions: Eliminating raised thresholds between rooms removes trip hazards. A contractor can install transition strips that sit level with both surfaces.

If you are also finishing a basement as part of your aging-in-place plan, our basement finishing guide covers flooring choices, layout planning, and more.

Kitchen Modifications for Accessibility

The kitchen is the second-most-common room for aging-in-place upgrades after the bathroom. Small changes can make meal preparation and daily routines safer and more comfortable:

• Lowered countertops or multi-height work surfaces: Standard 36-inch counters may be too high for someone seated in a wheelchair. Adding a section at 30 to 34 inches creates an accessible workspace.
• Pull-out shelving and drawer-style lower cabinets: These reduce the need to bend, reach, or climb to access stored items.
• Lever-style faucets and touchless fixtures: Easier to operate for anyone with limited grip strength.
• Improved lighting: Under-cabinet task lighting and brighter overhead fixtures reduce shadows and improve visibility during food preparation.

Many homeowners in the Denver area combine kitchen accessibility upgrades with a broader kitchen remodel, which can be a smart approach since the construction work often overlaps.

Which Aging-in-Place Modifications Add Resale Value?

Not every aging-in-place modification is purely functional. Several upgrades also increase your home’s market appeal, especially as Denver’s population of adults over 60 continues to grow.

Modifications that tend to boost resale value include:

• Walk-in shower conversions: Modern, curbless showers are a selling point for buyers of all ages. They look sleek and are easier to clean.
• First-floor bedroom suites: Added living space on the main level appeals to young families, remote workers, and aging buyers alike.
• Wider doorways and open floor plans: These changes make a home feel more spacious and modern, regardless of accessibility needs.
• Concrete ramps that double as landscaping features: A well-designed ramp with matching materials and integrated planters adds curb appeal rather than detracting from it.

On the other hand, highly specialized equipment like ceiling-mounted lifts or stairlift tracks may need to be removed before selling, as they can narrow buyer appeal. The best strategy is to invest in modifications that work for your current needs while keeping the home attractive to the broadest possible audience.

Colorado Grants and Tax Credits for Home Modifications

Colorado offers several programs that can help offset the investment in aging-in-place modifications:

• Colorado Home Modification Tax Credit: Available through 2028, this state income tax credit applies to homeowners who retrofit their residence to increase “visitability.” Qualifying improvements include wider doorways, zero-step entries, and accessible bathrooms. You must obtain a credit certificate from the Colorado Division of Housing before claiming the credit on your state tax return. Details are available at tax.colorado.gov.
• Colorado Home Modification Program (Medicaid): For residents enrolled in Health First Colorado (Medicaid), this Long-Term Services and Supports benefit covers specific modifications that address health, welfare, and safety needs. Eligible projects must be the most effective option for keeping the participant in their home and preventing institutional care.
• Denver Home Accessibility Modifications: The City of Denver’s Community Support division offers home accessibility modification assistance for qualifying residents with disabilities.
• USDA Rural Development loans: Homeowners in qualifying areas outside central Denver may be eligible for Section 504 Home Repair loans and grants for accessibility improvements.

A qualified contractor can help you identify which modifications align with these programs and coordinate the documentation needed for tax credit certification.

How to Plan Your Aging-in-Place Remodel in Denver

A successful aging-in-place project starts with honest assessment and clear priorities. Here is a practical approach:

1. Walk through your home with fresh eyes. Note every step, threshold, narrow doorway, and slippery surface. Think about how you use each room daily and where you would struggle if your mobility changed.
2. Prioritize by impact. Bathroom accessibility and entryway access tend to deliver the most safety benefit. Start there if your budget is limited.
3. Check your local codes. Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, Highlands Ranch, and other metro-area cities each have their own permitting requirements. A contractor experienced in multiple jurisdictions can save you time and avoid compliance issues.
4. Think about phasing. You do not need to do everything at once. Many homeowners start with a bathroom remodel and ramp, then add a first-floor suite a few years later as needs evolve.
5. Choose a contractor who understands universal design. Look for a general contractor with experience in accessible construction, not just standard remodeling. They should be familiar with ADA guidelines, Colorado visitability standards, and the specific challenges of Denver’s older housing stock.

Faros Construction has over 30 years of combined experience serving homeowners across the Denver metro area, from Castle Rock to Westminster. As a family-owned company, we understand that aging-in-place modifications are about more than construction. They are about keeping families together in the homes they love. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your project.

Get a free quote on aging-in-place modifications for your Denver home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important aging-in-place modification for Denver homes?

Bathroom accessibility is the top priority for most homeowners. Walk-in shower conversions, grab bars, and non-slip flooring address the most common source of injury, which is falls on wet bathroom surfaces. Starting with the bathroom gives you the greatest safety improvement per dollar invested.

Do aging-in-place modifications require building permits in Denver?

It depends on the scope. Small changes like grab bars and lever handles typically do not require permits. Larger projects, including doorway widening, ramp construction, room additions, and plumbing or electrical work, usually do require permits in Denver and surrounding cities. Your contractor should handle the permitting process as part of the project.

Can I claim a tax credit for aging-in-place home modifications in Colorado?

Yes. Colorado’s Home Modification Tax Credit (available through 2028) provides a state income tax credit for homeowners who make qualifying visitability improvements such as wider doorways, zero-step entries, and accessible bathrooms. You need a credit certificate from the Colorado Division of Housing to claim it.

How wide do doorways need to be for wheelchair access?

The ADA recommends a minimum clear opening of 32 inches, though 36 inches is the standard for new accessible construction. Most pre-1990s homes in Denver have 28- to 30-inch doorways, so widening them is one of the most common aging-in-place projects.

Will aging-in-place modifications hurt my home’s resale value?

Most aging-in-place modifications actually increase resale value. Walk-in showers, wider doorways, open floor plans, and first-floor bedroom suites are desirable features for buyers of all ages. The key is choosing modifications that blend with your home’s style rather than looking institutional.