Aging in Place in Plymouth County & South Shore: Strategies to Stay Home Safely

For many older adults in Plymouth County and across the South Shore of Massachusetts, staying in their current home as they age—known as aging in place—is a goal rooted in comfort, familiarity, and independence.

Whether you're living in a charming historic home in Scituate or a classic Colonial in the Middleboro area, the idea of leaving a house full of memories can be overwhelming.

Fortunately, with thoughtful updates and the right support, many homes across Southeastern Massachusetts can be modified to support evolving needs, allowing seniors to maintain their independence safely.

Start with a Home Assessment

Aging in place starts with looking at your current home through a new lens. Are there multiple stairs? Narrow hallways? Poor lighting? All of these can impact your mobility or safety as you age.

Many older homes in Massachusetts, especially in towns like Plymouth, Hingham, and Hanover, weren’t designed with accessibility in mind. But that doesn’t mean they can’t be adapted. A home assessment—either DIY or with a professional—can highlight areas where changes can make a major difference.

Converting a First-Floor Room into a Bedroom

In older New England homes, bedrooms are often located upstairs. If stairs are becoming a concern, converting a first-floor space—such as a den, office, or dining room—into a bedroom can significantly reduce fall risks and daily strain. Ideally, you’ll also want access to a nearby bathroom to make the setup practical and safe. For many homeowners in towns like Kingston or Duxbury, this kind of layout adjustment is a smart way to stay home longer.

Bringing the Laundry Room to the Main Floor

Carrying laundry baskets up and down stairs is not only exhausting—it’s dangerous. If your washer and dryer are in the basement (as is common in many South Shore homes), relocating them to the first floor can be a game-changer. Consider a stackable unit in a closet, kitchen corner, or mudroom—anywhere that keeps daily chores within easy reach.

Other Home Modifications to Consider

Not every change needs to be big or expensive. Small improvements can add up to major quality-of-life boosts:

• Swap round doorknobs for lever handles that are easier on arthritic hands

• Add rocker or smart light switches that are easier to operate

• Install grab bars and non-slip flooring in bathrooms

• Adjust kitchen shelves and storage so frequently used items are easy to access

• Widen doorways, if needed, to accommodate walkers or wheelchairs

These changes are especially important in older homes that weren’t built with accessibility in mind.

Smart Tech That Makes Aging in Place Easier

Technology can enhance safety and convenience for seniors and peace of mind for their families:

• Emergency response systems for quick help

• Smart security and doorbell cameras so you can see who’s at the door

• Medication reminders or automatic dispensers

• Voice-activated assistants (like Alexa or Google Home) for controlling lights and appliances

These upgrades can be particularly useful in rural parts of Plymouth County where family might not be nearby.

🧰 Helpful Local Companies That Support Aging in Place

If you’re considering updates to make your home safer or more accessible, here are a few Massachusetts-based companies that specialize in aging-in-place services:

• Stannah Stairlifts USA – New England Office
  stannah stairlifts
  Known for high-quality stairlift installations and friendly customer service.

• Lifeway Stairlifts - Serving Mass, RI and NH
• https://www.lifewaymobility.com/massachusetts/stair-lifts
• Rental options as well as monthly financing
• National Association of Specialty & Senior Move Managers®
• https://www.nasmm.org/
• Help you downsize, organize and simplify your current home

⚠️ Do Your Homework Before Hiring

Before hiring any professional, take time to do your due diligence:

✔️ Check Google reviews, Yelp, or Facebook recommendations
✔️ Look into their Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating
✔️ Ask your Council on Aging, neighbors, or family for feedback
✔️ Be sure to get written estimates and ask about warranties or guarantees

What works for one homeowner may not be the best fit for another, so taking the time to research can help you avoid headaches later on.

Is Renovating Worth It? Sometimes a Move Makes More Sense

While many homes can be adapted for aging in place, not all changes are simple—or affordable. Extensive renovations, like installing a stair lift or reconfiguring bathrooms, can be costly and complicated, especially in older or historic homes found throughout Massachusetts.

In some cases, a move to a more accessible home may be the wiser option. Many seniors in Southeastern Massachusetts choose to RightSize into a single-level condo or a 55+ community where accessibility, maintenance, and community are built-in. These homes often feature no stairs, walk-in showers, wider doorways, and first-floor laundry—all without having to take on major renovations.

For others, multigenerational living—sharing a home with adult children or extended family—can offer both support and companionship, especially when the home is designed with everyone’s comfort and privacy in mind.

Your Next Chapter, Your Way

Whether you choose to modify your current home or explore new options, the goal is the same: to stay safe, comfortable, and independent.

Working with someone who understands the local housing market and the unique needs of seniors can make a world of difference. From recommending trusted contractors for home updates to helping you explore one-floor homes and 55+ communities in Plymouth County and the South Shore, you don't have to navigate it alone.

About Pam Corning

Pam Corning is a Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES) with HomeSmart First Class Realty, helping seniors and their families navigate housing transitions across Plymouth County, the South Shore, and Southeastern Massachusetts. Whether you're thinking about aging in place or making a move to something more manageable, Pam offers resources, guidance, and local expertise tailored to your next chapter.

In addition to her work with 55+ communities and "Rightsizing" moves, Pam brings a strong background in selling historic and antique homes throughout Plymouth County, South Shore and Southeastern, Massachusetts. She understands the charm—and the challenges—that come with older properties, from preservation guidelines to pricing and marketing these special homes effectively. Whether you’re downsizing from a centuries-old Colonial or a Victorian with character, Pam has the experience to help you honor the past while planning for your future.

Not 55+? No problem — Pam works with buyers and sellers of all ages.

Not in Massachusetts? She has a trusted network of top referral partners throughout the U.S.

📞 Ready to explore your options? Contact Pam today to schedule a friendly consultation.