An aging population of Baby Boomers, whether they want to remain in their homes or choose to move in with relatives, represents an opportunity for remodelers to upgrade homes and design remodeling projects to meet the needs of older residents.

In addition to those who wish to remain in their homes, an increasing number of seniors is now living under the same roof with at least one other generation. According to a recent survey conducted for the international caregiving company Home Instead Senior Care, 43 percent of adult caregivers in the United States ages 35 to 62 live with the parent, step-parent or older relative for whom they or someone else in their household provides care.

Adult children who move a senior into their home, or who move into a senior’s home, should ensure that their loved ones are safe by conducting a physical inventory with an eye toward safety and comfort, according to Dan Bawden CGR, CAPS, GMB, owner of Legal Eagle Contractors in Houston and one of the founders of the Certified Aging in Place Specialists (CAPS) program for the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).

Bawden offered the following tips to make homes safer for seniors:

Falls: Seniors may be vulnerable to falls, particularly on or near stairs. To make a home safer, remove area rugs on and near the top and bottom of stairs. Make sure railings are on both sides of the stairs. Cost to add railing on one side: between $200 and $300.

Security: Osteoporosis changes the height of some seniors, making it difficult for them to look through a door’s peephole. Why not add an additional, lower peephole to your front door for about $40.

Tripping: Changes in floor height between a hallway and the bedroom door entry can be a tripping hazard. A wood transition strip can be installed to even out the difference for a cost of about $100.

Entry Hazards: Seniors coming to the front door with groceries or other packages may be at risk of dropping their merchandise or, even worse, falling. A contractor can construct a shelf on the outside of the house on which to set keys and packages. Cost for materials and installation, about $75.

Burns: Older adults with mobility issues can be vulnerable to cooking accidents. Ovens on the market now open from the side, making it easier for someone in a wheelchair or with a walker. Cost is between $800 and $1,000.