Entrance and steps: aging-in-place checklist

The checks

1. Entry steps are solid and even, with no cracks, loose bricks or raised edges

   Broken or uneven steps leading to the front door are a classic trip. Look for any lip of ¼ in or more and for steps of different heights.

   Medium priority if missing. Usual fix: repair the steps and walk, $160–$220 (pro). Source: National Institute on Aging .

2. There is a sturdy railing beside the entry steps, ideally on both sides

   Grab the rail and lean on it: it should not move. A rail on both sides lets someone with a weaker side always use the stronger hand.

   High priority if missing. Usual fix: add an exterior railing, $300–$1,380 (pro). Source: National Institute on Aging , U.S. Access Board .

3. The entrance and its steps are lit at night, ideally by a light that switches on by itself

   Coming home after dark to an unlit step is a common trip. A motion-sensor light means nobody has to remember to leave the porch light on.

   Medium priority if missing. Usual fix: fit a motion-sensor porch light, $350–$500 (pro). Source: National Institute on Aging .

4. Outdoor steps have a non-slip surface

   Painted wood and smooth concrete get slick when wet or icy. Grit strips on each tread fix it for a few dollars.

   Medium priority if missing. Usual fix: add non-slip strips to each tread, $8–$34 (DIY). Source: National Institute on Aging .

5. There is something solid to hold while unlocking the door

   Standing on one foot on a top step while working a key is a balance test. NIA suggests a grab bar beside the front door.

   Medium priority if missing. Usual fix: mount a grab bar by the door, $85–$300 (DIY). Source: National Institute on Aging .

6. There is a bench or shelf by the door to set bags down

   AARP's HomeFit guide suggests a bench, table or shelf near the door so both hands are free for the lock and the rail.

   Low priority if missing. Usual fix: add a bench or shelf, $20–$190 (DIY). Source: AARP Livable Communities .

7. The door threshold is low (½ in or less) or beveled

   A raised threshold catches toes, walker legs and wheelchair casters. The ADA benchmark is ½ in, or ¾ in with beveled edges.

   Medium priority if missing. Usual fix: add a threshold ramp, $28–$93 (DIY). Source: U.S. Access Board , AARP Livable Communities .

8. At least one entrance can be used without climbing steps

   A zero-step entrance is the first item in AARP's HomeFit guide. If the person uses a wheelchair or struggles with steps, this decides whether they can leave the house at all.

   Medium priority if missing. Usual fix: install a modular ramp, $1,700–$5,000 (pro). Bigger option: install a vertical platform lift. Source: AARP Livable Communities , U.S. Access Board .

9. The front door lock and handle are easy to work, and family can get in without breaking the door

   Small keys and round knobs are hard with arthritis. A keypad lock lets family, carers and paramedics in without a hidden key.

   Low priority if missing. Usual fix: fit a keypad deadbolt, $250–$400 (DIY). Source: U.S. Access Board , AARP Livable Communities .

10. The house number is large and visible from the street at night

    If an ambulance cannot find the house, minutes are lost. Fire services ask for numbers at least 4 in tall on a contrasting background, reflective or lit.

    Low priority if missing. Usual fix: put up reflective house numbers, $25–$100 (DIY). Source: FIRESafe MARIN .

Measurements worth taking in the entrance and steps

Measure	Aim for
Height of each entry step (riser)	Steps the same height, ideally 4 to 7 in
Length of the entry stair run, top to bottom	Rail continuous for the full run, 34 to 38 in high
Threshold height at each exterior door	½ in or less, or ¾ in beveled
Total rise from ground to door sill (add up all steps)	Ramp length in feet = rise in inches (1:12), plus a 60 in level landing at each end

Frequently asked questions

What is the most important entrance and steps safety fix?

By severity and likelihood, the highest-risk check here is "There is a sturdy railing beside the entry steps, ideally on both sides". The usual fix is to add an exterior railing, at $300–$1,380 nationally.

How much does it cost to make the entrance and steps safer?

If every check here failed, the first-choice fixes would total $2,926–$8,217. 0 of the 10 fixes cost nothing and 3 cost $100 or less, so most homes start well below that.

Sources

1. National Institute on Aging: Preventing Falls at Home: Room by Room (2022-09-12)
2. U.S. Access Board: 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design (2010)
3. AARP Livable Communities: AARP HomeFit Guide (2025-05)
4. FIRESafe MARIN: Install high-visibility address numbers (accessed 2026-10-17)