What Is an Aging in Place Home Assessment — And Why Does It Matter?

House-Calls • June 9, 2025

Aging in place means staying in the comfort of your own home as you grow older — safely, independently, and with dignity. But is your home ready for the years ahead?


At House Calls, we specialize in aging in place home assessments across Kelowna, BC and beyond. In this post, we’ll explain what an aging in place assessment is, why it matters, and how it can help you or your loved ones stay safe at home.


What Is an Aging in Place Assessment?

An aging in place assessment is a professional review of your home’s safety, accessibility, and overall readiness for the challenges that can come with aging.

It goes far beyond a typical home checkup. Our focus is on helping you remain at home comfortably and safely for years to come — preventing falls, supporting mobility, and planning ahead for changing needs.


We Look at Areas Like:

  • Entryways and Stairs
    We check for sturdy, secure handrails on both sides of stairs and steps. We ensure lighting is bright and well-placed to prevent shadows that could hide hazards. We also look for any trip hazards such as uneven steps, loose mats, or clutter that could cause falls.
  • Bathrooms
    We assess whether grab bars can be installed near the toilet, tub, or shower to provide extra support. We check if the tub or shower is easily accessible, such as walk-in showers or low-threshold tubs. The flooring is reviewed to ensure it’s slip-resistant to reduce the risk of falls.
  • Kitchens
    We examine if everyday items like dishes, utensils, and appliances are within easy reach to avoid strain or overreaching. We also look for sharp corners on counters or awkward layouts that might make moving around or working in the kitchen difficult or unsafe.
  • Bedrooms
    We check that bedroom layouts allow for safe movement, especially around the bed and furniture. We look for clutter or rugs that could cause trips. We also assess if lighting is adequate for nighttime navigation and if electrical switches and emergency devices are easy to access.
  • Lighting
    We evaluate the home’s lighting overall, making sure it is sufficient in all rooms and hallways, especially at night. We look for opportunities to add night lights or motion-activated lights to improve visibility and safety after dark.
  • Flooring
    We inspect floors throughout the home to identify any loose rugs, mats, or uneven surfaces that could cause tripping or slipping. We recommend non-slip options and smooth transitions between different flooring types.
  • Outside Spaces
    We review walkways, ramps, porches, and driveways to ensure they are even, well-lit, and free of hazards. Handrails on steps or ramps are checked for stability. We look at outdoor lighting, and pathways to ensure they are safe for mobility devices or walking, especially in poor weather.
  • Emergency Access
    We ensure that pathways to and from the home are clear and accessible so that first responders can quickly reach you in case of an emergency. This includes checking doorways, locks, and any potential barriers.



Why an Aging in Place Assessment Matters

1️⃣ Prevent Falls and Injuries

Falls are the #1 cause of injury among older Canadians. Many of them happen at home —

but most are preventable. An assessment helps identify risks you may not have noticed.


2️⃣ Plan for the Future

You may be healthy and active today, but needs can change. Installing grab bars or improving lighting now can save stress and expense later.


3️⃣ Stay Independent

Making your home more accessible means you can stay in it longer —

avoiding or delaying the need to move into assisted living or other care settings.


4️⃣ Peace of Mind for Families

An aging in place assessment gives adult children and loved ones confidence that the home is safe and ready —

reducing worry and giving everyone peace of mind.


Who Should Get an Aging in Place Assessment?

👉 Seniors who want to stay in their current home
👉 Adult children helping their parents plan ahead
👉 People recovering from illness or surgery
👉 Anyone who wants a safe, comfortable home for the future


Book Your Aging in Place Home Assessment Today

At House Calls, we believe that everyone deserves to age in place safely and with dignity. Our team provides friendly, expert home assessments designed specifically for aging Canadians.

We serve Kelowna, BC and the surrounding areas, and we’d love to help you or your loved ones plan ahead.

👉 Ready to get started? Contact us here to book your Aging in Place Home Assessment today.