For many people, staying in the home they know and love becomes more important with age. But as the years go by, everyday tasks that used to be simple, like climbing stairs, stepping into a bathtub, or reaching for a high shelf, can become more difficult, or even unsafe.
That’s where aging in place becomes more than just an idea. It becomes a plan. And making that plan work often starts with small, thoughtful changes to the home, the kind of work we do every day.
Why Aging in Place Matters
Aging in place means living safely and independently at home for as long as possible. It’s not about doing everything alone, it’s about staying in a familiar place with the right support as your needs change.
According to the World Health Organization, by 2030, one in six people will be over the age of 60. Across Maryland, more families are asking how to help aging loved ones stay safe and comfortable without having to leave their homes. That’s where we come in.
How We Help Make Homes Safer
We work with homeowners to make changes that support safety, mobility, and comfort without the need for a full remodel. Our handyman services focus on the details that matter most as you or your loved ones grow older.
Grab Bars and Handrails
Falls are one of the most common injuries for older adults. We install grab bars in high-risk areas like showers, tubs, and near toilets. We also add handrails along staircases to provide more support and reduce the risk of falling.
Every installation is done securely with anchors that are built to last. We don’t cut corners on safety.
Wheelchair Ramps and Entry Adjustments
Even if you’re not in a wheelchair, ramps make it easier to get in and out of the house. We build and install ramps with gradual slopes, non-slip surfaces, and sturdy handrails. We also fix cracked steps and level out uneven walkways that can become serious trip hazards.
Widening Doorways
Many older homes in Maryland weren’t built with accessibility in mind. We help adjust doorways to make more room for wheelchairs or walkers. Sometimes that means removing trim, swapping hinges, or modifying thresholds to reduce barriers — all without major reconstruction.
Better Lighting
Poor lighting can make even a familiar space hard to navigate. We upgrade light fixtures, add motion-sensor lights in hallways and bathrooms, and install task lighting where it matters most. These changes reduce eye strain and make it easier to get around the home safely.
Flooring Fixes
Loose rugs, uneven floors, and slick surfaces can all lead to slips. We remove trip hazards, repair floor transitions, and install non-slip flooring in kitchens and bathrooms. It’s one of the simplest but most effective ways to support aging in place.
Making the Home Easier to Use
Safety is important, but convenience matters too. We make changes that help people stay independent and comfortable, whether they live alone or with support.
Lever-Style Handles and Faucets
Traditional knobs can be hard to grip for people with arthritis or limited hand strength. We install lever-style door handles and faucet fixtures that are easier to operate without twisting or squeezing.
Smart Locks and Automatic Door Openers
We install keyless entry systems and automatic door openers that help people avoid fumbling with keys or struggling with heavy doors. These upgrades also make it easier for family members or caregivers to check in when needed.
Lowered Storage and Workspaces
Reaching high cabinets or bending low for shelves can become a challenge. We adjust cabinet heights, install pull-down shelves, and modify closets so items are always within easy reach. It’s about building a home that works for your current needs, not just how it was originally built.
Bathroom Modifications
The bathroom is one of the most important areas to upgrade for aging in place. We offer targeted updates that improve both safety and daily comfort:
- Converting traditional tubs into walk-in showers
- Installing wall-mounted or fold-down shower seats
- Adding hand-held showerheads and easy-to-use faucets
- Applying non-slip coatings or installing textured tiles
These updates can help reduce the risk of slips while also making bathing more manageable without assistance.
Planning Ahead, Not Just Reacting
Too often, aging in place modifications happen after a fall or health scare. We encourage homeowners to think ahead and plan proactively. Our team offers seasonal handyman packages and routine maintenance to keep your home in great shape year-round.
What Makes Our Services Right for Aging in Place?
Not every handyman is equipped to support aging-in-place work. This kind of home care takes more than a toolbelt, it takes experience, attention to detail, and an understanding of how people’s needs change over time.
Here’s what we bring to the table:
Real Experience with Aging in Place
We’ve helped Maryland homeowners across Baltimore, Howard, Anne Arundel, and Harford Counties stay in their homes longer. We’ve seen what works — and what doesn’t. Whether it’s a full set of modifications or just one or two safety updates, we approach each project with care.
Licensed and Insured
You should never have to worry about who’s working in your home. We’re fully licensed and insured for all the services we offer. We follow state codes, local regulations, and product best practices.
Trusted by Local Families
Many of our clients find us through referrals, often from aging care professionals, care managers, or local housing support organizations. We take pride in the trust our community has in our work.
How Scherr Supports Maryland Homeowners
We’ve worked in homes of all shapes and sizes, from Baltimore rowhouses to suburban ranchers in Howard County. We know how to work with the structure you already have, and we know how to make those small but important changes that help you or your loved ones stay right where you want to be.
Our handyman services and scheduled packages are built for the long run. Whether it’s fixing railings, installing non-slip flooring, or making seasonal updates, we’re here when you need us.
Ready to Talk?
If you’re thinking about how to support aging in place, whether for yourself or for someone you love, let’s talk. Reach out today and we’ll walk through the home with you, talk about what’s working, what’s not, and where a few smart updates can make life a little easier.
You don’t have to leave home to stay safe and independent. You just need the right help at the right time.
FAQs About Aging in Place
What is aging in place?
Aging in place means staying in your home as you grow older instead of moving to assisted living or a care facility. It involves making updates to your home that support comfort, safety, and accessibility.
What are the most important updates for aging in place?
Common updates include grab bars in bathrooms, better lighting, non-slip flooring, ramps at entry points, widened doorways, and lowered cabinets or closets. Small changes often make the biggest difference.
Can handyman services help with bigger remodeling projects?
Yes. Handyman services are just one part of what we offer. For larger remodeling projects, our full team handles everything from design to construction. Whether you need a full bathroom renovation or aging-in-place updates throughout your home, we can take on the project from start to finish, or step in where you need us most.
Zach and Gavin Scherr, founders of Scherr, grew up immersed in the world of construction, inspired by family visits to job sites and the craftsmanship of their father and grandfather. With over 20 years of combined experience as general contractors, they bring a passion for quality workmanship and a deep commitment to exceptional customer service. Recognizing the challenges homeowners face in finding trusted contractors, Zach and Gavin established Scherr to bridge the gap between expert craftsmanship and a seamless client experience. Dedicated to building strong relationships and even stronger homes, they personally ensure every project meets their exacting standards, creating spaces where families can thrive.