Many homeowners don’t think twice about their garage... until it becomes a problem. For aging adults, the garage can turn into one of the riskiest parts of the home thanks to power tools, old sports gear, steep steps, and poor lighting. But it doesn’t have to stay that way.
“As we age, the home environment plays a critical role in supporting our independence," reminds Aaron Cash from Garage Living. "[You should focus] on practical upgrades that reduce trip hazards, improve lighting, and introduce accessible storage solutions.”
Improving the garage for accessibility and safety is a win for homeowners of all abilities, but we're especially focused on helping aging parents stay independent longer. The right upgrades go a long way.
Safety Starts with the Basics: Eliminate Tripping Hazards
One of the first ways to make a modern garage safer is to correct uneven floors, clutter, and poor lighting. All of these factors can be problematic, and not just homeowners who need a wheelchair accessible space.
Improved lighting helps people see more clearly and move more confidently. Motion-sensor lights are especially helpful when carrying bags or moving in low light. In the event of a power outage, convenient flashlights are helpful.
Cash added, “Features like accessible cabinetry, clear floor space, and slip-resistant flooring allow homeowners to safely use the garage for everything from daily entry to long-term storage.” It’s also helpful to add handrails or sturdy shelving that doubles as balance support.
Allowing for extra space in walkways helps guarantee accessible parking spaces.
Safety isn’t just about avoiding injury; it’s about making your home easier to use every day. That means thinking about how someone enters and exits the garage. Adding mobility aids like a step-free entrance or a ramp can be a game-changer for someone who uses a walker or has trouble with stairs.
Simple Storage Changes Add an Extra Layer of Convenience
Storage can be one of the most frustrating parts of any garage, especially for someone with limited mobility. Tall shelves, small labels, and cluttered corners make it hard to find what’s needed—and risky to try.
Upgrading to accessible storage doesn’t mean giving up space; it just means using it smarter. Consider adding:
- Wall-mounted storage that keeps floors clear
- Cabinets with wide, easy-grip handles
- Open shelving at waist height
- Pull-down or sliding storage systems
- Clear bins with large, visible labels
These kinds of changes don’t just make the space more accessible for wheelchair users; they also help aging parents stay organized without bending, reaching, or climbing. “For many of our clients, their garage improvement goals prioritize establishing peace of mind in the garage first, knowing we’ll improve aesthetics in the process,” shares Cash.
And it’s not just about maximizing the square footage or getting items off the garage floor, it’s also about what items are kept. Decluttering the garage is a smart way to remove items that pose a risk or are no longer useful. If it's not used or loved, it might be time to let it go.
Aging in Place
Garages are often overlooked during the remodeling construction process. People renovate kitchens and bathrooms but forget that garages are a daily entry point for many families.
For older adults especially, the garage is both practical and emotional. It’s a place tied to memories, hobbies, and routines.
With smart garage upgrades, it can continue to serve all of those roles safely. “Whether it’s making room for hobbies like woodworking or gardening, or simply clearing out hazards to prevent falls, [garage accessibility improvements help] those who have spent years taking care of others, and their homes, can continue to do so with ease and confidence,” shares Cash.
Aging in place is about more than just staying in the same house. It’s about making that house work for changing needs. The garage is part of that plan. He adds, “We believe a well-designed garage can support aging in place just as much as any bathroom or kitchen renovation.”
FAQ
What is the best floor for a garage used by aging adults?
Look for slip-resistant options like Floortex® Polyaspartic flooring. It adds both safety and durability. It’s easy to clean, brightens up the space, and helps reduce falls caused by slick or uneven surfaces.
Can smart home features help in the garage?
For sure! Motion-activated light sources and automatic garage door openers are a must-have for anyone concerned about mobility. Voice-activated door openers are also helpful. They add convenience and reduce the need for reaching or heavy lifting, which can help aging adults use the garage space more confidently.
