Owning a home is a huge investment, and it isn’t getting any cheaper. With the median price of homes in the U.S. almost doubling in the last six years, it’s no surprise that the way we live is changing just as quickly.

We’re seeing the return of multigenerational homes, a growing ADU construction business, and fewer homes actually hit the market. Instead of jumping from one home to the next, people are settling into their properties and investing long-term in their living spaces.

But growing old in a home starts the moment you get the keys. Whether you’re 25, 40, or 65, there are small adjustments you can make to your living space to start getting it ready for a stage of life when you’re not as physically fit as you might be today: tripping hazards to eradicate, lighting to improve, grab bars to install.

It might sound ridiculous to a 20-something, but these are the small things you will thank yourself for in due time. And, as that time comes around, there will surely be more changes to be made.

If you’re ready financially (and emotionally) for bigger changes to your home, our experts have some great ideas for where to start. Whether it’s full room renovations or just more permanent accommodations for mobility devices and limitations, you won’t regret making these changes before you need them.

Though it might not be your first thought at 25, at 65 you’ll be thinking a lot more about the way your closet is designed and how much reaching you’re having to do before 7 a.m.

The same thought might cross your mind in the kitchen, and you’ll find yourself looking for somewhere to fit a chair instead of standing at the stove for hours. You’ll think about tripping hazards and stairs, and whether or not it’s worth the investment to install an elevator (spoiler: our experts say no).

It’s a lot to think about, and you don’t have to tackle it all now. But if you’re thinking of starting, our experts have all the best tips for making sure your home is fit for the long haul.

Click here to view the tiny tweaks & larger renos.

Aging in Place Doesn’t Have to Be Difficult – These Simple Tips Can Make Your Next Stage of Life Easier & Safer by Natalia Gonzalez Blanco Serrano | The Spruce