Aging in Place Remodeling in Southern Maryland: Design, Cost & Safety in 2026

Aging in place has become a central focus of home remodeling in Southern Maryland as more homeowners plan to stay in their homes well into retirement. In 2026, this type of remodeling is less about reacting to limitations and more about designing homes that remain functional, safe, and comfortable through every stage of life.

Aging in place home remodeling allows homeowners to preserve independence while adapting their homes to changing needs. For many families, it also offers a more personal and cost-effective alternative to downsizing or assisted living—especially when paired with smart planning and the right remodeling partner.

• Why Aging in Place Is Gaining Momentum in Southern Maryland
• What Aging in Place Remodeling Looks Like in 2026
• Safety Improvements That Deliver the Most Value
• Room-by-Room Design Considerations for Aging in Place
• Cost of Home Remodeling in Southern Maryland for Aging in Place
• What Drives Remodeling Costs in Southern Maryland
• Funding and Planning Resources in Maryland
• Selecting the Right Remodeler
• A Smarter Way to Stay Home Longer
• Villa Builders: Building for Every Stage of Life
• Contact Us

Why Aging in Place Is Gaining Momentum in Southern Maryland

Across Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s Counties, many homes were built without accessibility in mind. Multi-level layouts, narrow hallways, and outdated bathrooms are common challenges for homeowners who want to remain in place long-term.

Home remodeling for seniors addresses these issues before they become urgent. Aging in place home modifications reduce fall risk, improve daily comfort, and help homeowners maintain routines without disruption. These renovations often align well with broader market trends, making homes more appealing to future buyers who value flexibility and universal design.

Experienced home remodelers in Maryland are increasingly helping homeowners plan projects years in advance rather than waiting for an unexpected health event.

What Aging in Place Remodeling Looks Like in 2026

Modern aging in place home renovations focus on usability without sacrificing aesthetics. Instead of obvious accessibility features, homeowners are choosing subtle upgrades that blend seamlessly into the home’s design.

Common planning priorities in 2026 include:

• Easier-to-use hardware and fixtures

• Improved lighting throughout the home

• Smoother transitions between rooms

• Layout adjustments that support future mobility needs

Rather than tackling everything at once, many homeowners approach aging in place home remodeling in phases. This strategy spreads costs over time while allowing improvements to evolve alongside changing needs.

Before construction begins, many home remodelers in Southern Maryland recommend a home safety assessment to identify high-risk areas and set priorities. You can view our Process page to get a better idea of how Villa Builders manage home renovations. 

Safety Improvements That Deliver the Most Value

Safety is the foundation of aging in place remodeling. Most accidents occur in familiar spaces, which is why targeted improvements can make such a significant difference. 

Exterior access is another critical focus. Front steps, garage thresholds, and uneven walkways frequently become barriers if left unaddressed. Aging in place home modifications that improve entry and exit points help homeowners maintain independence and confidence. 

Some high-impact safety upgrades homeowners in MD opt for include:

• Improved ambient and task lighting to reduce shadows

• Non-slip flooring in moisture-prone areas

• Secure handrails along stairways and entries

• Clear, unobstructed walking paths

Room-by-Room Design Considerations for Aging in Place

Safety and comfort take center stage in any aging in place home remodel, but how that's accomplished varies from room to room. Here is how you can renovate each space in your home to support multigenerational living. 

Bathrooms

Bathrooms are typically the most complex space to remodel for aging in place. They combine tight layouts, water exposure, and daily use, making thoughtful design of utmost importance.

Common bathroom aging-in-place upgrades include:

• Walk-in or curbless showers

• Reinforced walls for grab bars

• Comfort-height toilets

• Slip-resistant flooring

• Handheld showerheads and seating options

Kitchens

Kitchen updates often focus on reducing strain rather than changing appearance. Aging in place home renovations in kitchens frequently include:

• Pull-out shelving and drawers

• Improved task lighting

• Lever-style faucets and cabinet hardware

• Workflow adjustments that minimize reaching and bending

Stairs and Multi-Level Homes

Stairs often require long-term planning. Depending on the homeowner’s goals and timeline, solutions may include:

• Stair lifts

• Main-level bedroom conversions

• Future elevator planning

• Reconfiguring frequently used spaces to the first floor

Need more design inspiration? Look through our Portfolio.

Cost of Home Remodeling in Southern Maryland for Aging in Place

Understanding the cost of home remodeling in Southern Maryland helps homeowners plan realistically and avoid rushed decisions. While prices vary by home and scope, the following 2026 ranges reflect common investments for aging in place home remodeling when working with professional home remodelers.

Bathroom Remodeling Costs

Bathroom projects often represent the largest portion of aging in place home renovations.

• Basic safety-focused bathroom upgrades:
  $4,000–$8,000
  Typically includes grab bars with proper blocking, improved lighting, non-slip flooring, and a comfort-height toilet.

• Mid-range aging in place bathroom remodel:
  $12,000–$20,000
  Often includes a walk-in or low-threshold shower, widened doorway, updated fixtures, and improved layout.

• High-end or curbless shower remodel:
  $25,000–$40,000+
  Includes full curbless shower conversion, linear drain, advanced waterproofing, custom tile, and reinforced walls.

Entryways and Exterior Access

Exterior accessibility plays a major role in home remodeling in Southern Maryland for aging in place.

• Wheelchair or walker ramp:
  $55–$275 per linear foot
  Most projects total between $2,500 and $8,000.

• Zero-step entry conversion:
  $3,000–$10,000
  Costs vary based on grading, concrete work, and entry configuration.

• Exterior handrails:
  $800–$2,500
  Pricing depends on length, material, and anchoring requirements.

Vertical Access Solutions

For multi-level homes, vertical access significantly affects the overall budget.

• Straight stair lift: $2,500–$5,500 installed

• Curved stair lift: $7,000–$12,000+

• Residential elevator: $30,000–$100,000+

Many home remodelers in Southern Maryland recommend stair lifts as a more cost-effective solution, reserving elevators for more intensive cases.

Kitchen Remodeling Costs

Kitchen updates that support aging in place range widely based on scope.

• Minor kitchen accessibility upgrades: $3,000–$7,000

• Moderate kitchen remodel with aging-in-place features: $15,000–$30,000

• Full kitchen remodel with universal design: $35,000–$60,000+

Whole-Home Aging in Place Renovation Costs

Some homeowners choose to address multiple areas at once.

• Partial home aging-in-place upgrades: $10,000–$25,000

• Phased whole-home aging in place home renovations: $40,000–$80,000

• Comprehensive whole-home remodel: $90,000–$150,000+

For a more detailed breakdown of home remodeling costs, please look at our Cost Guide. 

What Drives Remodeling Costs in Southern Maryland

Several factors influence pricing for aging in place home modifications, including:

• Age and condition of the home

• Structural or plumbing changes

• Permit and inspection requirements

• Material selections and availability

• Long-term durability and future-proofing goals

Funding and Planning Resources in Maryland

Some homeowners may qualify for grants, low-interest loans, or assistance programs that support aging in place home renovations. Because availability changes frequently, homeowners should do deeper research. Even without assistance, phasing projects over time can make home remodeling for seniors more manageable.

Selecting the Right Remodeler

Aging in place home remodeling requires specialized experience. When evaluating home remodelers in Southern Maryland, homeowners should look for:

• Proven experience with accessibility-focused projects

• Clear scopes of work and realistic timelines

• Knowledge of safety standards and waterproofing systems

• Willingness to plan for future needs, not just current ones

You can also view our guide on choosing the right design-build remodeler to help you find the right fit. 

A Smarter Way to Stay Home Longer

Aging in place remodeling in Southern Maryland is ultimately about creating choices. When a home is designed to support changing needs, homeowners gain flexibility, whether that means navigating daily routines more comfortably today or avoiding difficult decisions years down the road.

The most successful aging-in-place home modifications aren’t rushed or reactive. They’re planned, phased, and thoughtfully integrated into the way a home is already lived in. Homeowners' future selves will thank them if they address safety concerns early, set a realistic budget, and work with professionals who understand long-term accessibility. Turn potential limitations into lasting advantages that will benefit you and your family for generations to come. 

Villa Builders: Building for every stage of life

Villa Builders was founded on the goal of putting dreams into a blueprint. We know the ins and outs of the permitting process in Southern Maryland and understand how to build homes that withstand the climate here. We have completed homes for people with varying needs and in different stages of life. Our team provides a full range of remodeling services, including bathroom and kitchen renovations and home additions. We are ready to partner with you to design and build a home you want to spend a lifetime in. 

Contact Us

Reach out to our team and schedule a free consultation.