As we get older, our needs change and so should our homes. That’s why aging-in-place renovations have become some of the most important upgrades homeowners can make. Whether you’re thinking ahead for yourself or helping a loved one, the right changes now can make a home safer, more functional, and comfortable for years to come.
In Season 5, Episode 3 of the Holmes on Homes Podcast, available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, or watch the full episode on YouTube, Mike Holmes and his daughter Sherry Holmes sit down with Accessibility Specialist Ronny Wiskin from MED+ Health to talk about the most valuable aging-in-place home modifications—and why it’s never too early to start planning.
Mike has always said a home should work for you, not against you. That means thinking about everything from safety and accessibility to long-term comfort. In this episode, Mike shares practical solutions like installing grab bars, converting to curbless showers, adding ramps, and replacing stairs with chair lifts or vertical lifts to improve access in multi-story homes.
Here are some key features to consider when designing an accessible bathroom.
One of the most important takeaways? Prioritize main-floor living. Mike and Ronny both emphasize the importance of having everything you need—kitchen, laundry, full bathroom, and a bedroom—on one level. For older homes with limited space, Ronny offers creative layout ideas that maximize accessibility without major structural changes.
They also highlight the importance of thoughtful design. These updates don’t have to feel clinical or institutional—good accessibility can still look stylish. It’s about making smart choices that work for your space, budget, and future needs.
Whether you’re planning for aging in place or adapting a home for a loved one, Mike’s message is clear: don’t wait until it’s too late. Start the conversation now, ask questions, and work with professionals who understand accessibility.
As Mike Holmes says, “Make it right from the start.” With the right planning and renovations, your home can truly become a forever home.
Listen to Season 5, Episode 3 of the Holmes on Homes Podcast with Mike Holmes, “What Are the Most Popular Aging-in-Place Remodelling Projects? Top Home Modifications for a Safe, Comfortable Forever Home” on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, or watch the full episode on YouTube.
Check Out Season 5 Of The Holmes on Homes Podcast with Mike Holmes
The Holmes on Homes podcast with Mike Holmes isn’t just for contractors, it’s for anyone curious about how the trades work and why they matter. Whether you’re renovating your home or considering a career in the skilled trades, Mike Holmes brings you real stories from the jobsite, expert interviews, and honest conversations. Each episode delivers practical insights that help you understand how things should be built and why it’s worth doing it right.
Holmes on Homes Podcast with Mike Holmes is available on all podcast streaming platforms, including Mike Holmes’ YouTube Channel as well as Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
About Mike Holmes
Mike Holmes is a renowned North American contractor, television personality, and advocate for healthy homes. Best known for his television series Holmes on Homes and Holmes Makes It Right, Mike has built a reputation as a champion of safety, quality, and durability in residential construction. Over the years, he has become a prominent voice in advocating for healthier living environments, emphasizing the importance of building homes that are not only structurally sound but also promote the health and well-being of their occupants.
About Sherry Holmes
Sherry Holmes, daughter of renowned contractor Mike Holmes, is a skilled contractor and television personality. Following in her father’s footsteps, she brings her expertise in home renovation to various projects. Passionate about quality craftsmanship and helping others, Sherry contributes to making homes safer and more sustainable. She actively supports and promotes youth and young women in the trades through organizations like Skills Canada, World Skills, and Conestoga College’s Jill of All Trades.
