Modifying a Farmhouse for Accessibility

Where do I start with an accessibility plan?

Start by watching how you actually move through your day. Where do you slow down, reach, twist, climb or hold on to something? Those spots tell you more than any checklist. If you can, ask an occupational therapist, who can evaluate how you live and recommend changes, usually through a referral from your doctor.

Then think in stages. Fix the highest-risk spots first, usually entrances, bathrooms and stairs, and leave bigger changes for later. A plan on paper keeps you from spending money on changes that do not solve your real problem.

How do I make the entrance and paths safer?

Farmhouse entrances often have steps, uneven landings and doors that swing the wrong way. Many people use the mudroom or back door, not the front, so look at the route you really take. Good lighting, sturdy handrails, non-slip surfaces and a level landing outside the door all help.

A ramp can be a good answer, but ramps have to be built to a proper slope and with correct materials, and requirements are set locally. Ask your county building or permit office what applies in your area and have a qualified contractor or knowledgeable builder do the work.

• Brighten outdoor lights at doors and steps
• Keep paths clear of hoses, tools and boots
• Add handrails where the route turns or changes level

What about the bathroom?

The bathroom is where many falls happen, so it deserves attention. Common upgrades include a walk-in shower with a seat, grab bars anchored properly into framing, a raised toilet seat and non-slip flooring. Sinks and storage can be adjusted so the things you use daily are within easy reach.

Grab bars must be installed correctly to hold weight, so do not rely on suction cups or towel bars. A qualified contractor should handle plumbing changes, and if your home has a private well or septic system, ask your county health department before adding fixtures that increase water use.

Can I make the kitchen and living areas easier to use?

Kitchens can be improved with simple changes before a full remodel. Move everyday dishes and pans to waist-height shelves, use pull-out drawers instead of deep cabinets, and install lever handles instead of knobs. Good lighting over work areas helps people who see less well.

In living areas, remove loose rugs, clear walkways and make sure cords are not across paths. Choose chairs with firm seats and arms that are easier to stand up from. Think about where you would sit to rest when coming in from outside.

What can we do about stairs and bedrooms?

Steep farmhouse stairs are a common worry. Options include sturdy handrails on both sides, better lighting with switches at top and bottom, and moving the main living space to the ground floor. Stair lifts can work in some homes but depend on stair layout and cost, so get more than one opinion.

Many families set up a first-floor bedroom and bathroom, even if it means giving up a dining room. It is often the least expensive way to keep someone safely at home. Check electrical and heating changes with a licensed professional.

• Add a night light path from bedroom to bathroom
• Keep a phone within reach of the bed
• Consider a first-floor bedroom if stairs are difficult

How do I find qualified help and funding?

Ask for references and look for contractors with accessibility experience. Check that they are licensed and insured as your state requires, and get written estimates. Be cautious of anyone who pressures you to decide quickly or asks for large payments in advance.

USDA Rural Development lists housing assistance on its website for some eligible rural homeowners, and your area agency on aging, county health department and local nonprofits may know about other help. Funding rules and availability change, so contact the offices directly and ask what you qualify for.

What mistakes should I avoid?

The most common mistake is doing a big project before you know what you need. Changes that look good in a catalog may not suit how you live, so try things out when possible, such as sitting on different seat heights or practicing with a walker or cane in a doorway.

Another mistake is skipping permits and inspections. Local rules protect you and affect resale and insurance, so ask the county permit office before work begins. Also avoid planning only for today. Choose changes that will still work if your needs grow, such as wider doorways and flooring without thresholds.

Finally, do not overlook small, low-cost fixes. Lever handles, better lighting, a sturdy chair and moved furniture often make a bigger daily difference than a major remodel.

• Measure doorways and hallways before buying mobility equipment
• Ask your insurer whether changes affect your coverage

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Rural Farm Life Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.