Philadelphia's Growing Older Population Drives Greater Focus On Home Accessibility

(MENAFN- Market Press Release) August 27, 2026 2:31 am - Philadelphia's aging population is increasing demand for home accessibility modifications, with stair lifts, bathroom upgrades, grab bars, and ramps helping residents adapt homes for changing mobility needs.

Philadelphia, PA. - Philadelphia's growing older population is drawing greater attention to the accessibility of existing homes, as more residents and families consider ways to adapt properties to changing mobility needs, according to Stair Ride Company, a Philadelphia-area provider of stair lifts and home accessibility solutions.

A June 2026 report from The Pew Charitable Trusts, based on U.S. Census Bureau data, found that Philadelphia's population of adults age 65 and older increased by 24% between 2014 and 2024, reaching approximately 15% of the city's total population. The increase highlights the changing demographic profile of the city and the need to consider how existing housing can accommodate residents as their mobility needs change.

For homeowners and families, that can mean evaluating parts of the home that become more difficult to navigate over time, particularly stairs, bathrooms, entrances, and other areas used for daily activities.

Philadelphia's Aging Population and Changing Home Needs

Philadelphia's housing stock includes many multi-level homes, including rowhouses, where stairs can connect essential living spaces across different floors. For residents experiencing changes in mobility, those layouts can become more challenging to navigate.
Stair Ride Company says it has seen continued interest from Philadelphia-area homeowners and families looking at practical ways to improve accessibility without immediately moving from a home that is familiar to them.

"Philadelphia's changing demographics are bringing more attention to how well existing homes work for people as their mobility needs change," said a spokesperson for Stair Ride Company. "We're hearing from families who want to look at practical options that can make everyday movement around the home easier while allowing residents to remain in a familiar environment."

The company's experience includes conversations with older homeowners planning ahead as well as adult children helping parents evaluate accessibility changes to their homes.

Stairs and Bathrooms as Key Accessibility Concerns

Stairs and bathrooms are often among the first areas families consider when evaluating home accessibility.

For homes where bedrooms, bathrooms, or other frequently used spaces are located on different floors, a stair lift may provide an alternative to repeatedly using the stairs. The appropriate solution can depend on the staircase configuration, available space, and the individual's mobility requirements.

Bathrooms can present a different set of considerations. Homeowners may explore options such as grab bars and other accessibility modifications to make everyday use more manageable and address potential safety concerns.

Entryways can also require attention. Depending on the property's layout, homeowners may consider ramps or other modifications to improve access between the home and exterior areas.
Rather than applying the same solution to every property, Stair Ride Company recommends considering the home's physical layout alongside the needs of the person who will use the space.

Stair Ride Company's Perspective on Aging in Place

The growing interest in accessibility is also connected to aging in place, as homeowners look for ways to remain in their existing homes as their circumstances change.

For some households, accessibility planning may involve targeted modifications instead of a major renovation or a move to another property. The decision can depend on the home's design, the resident's current mobility, and whether additional needs are likely to develop over time.

"Every home presents different challenges, so there isn't one accessibility solution that works for everyone," the Stair Ride Company spokesperson said. "The goal is to understand the person's needs and the home itself before determining which modifications make the most sense."

The company says this approach is particularly relevant in Philadelphia, where residential properties can vary significantly in size, layout, and accessibility.

Accessibility Solutions Depend on Individual Homes

A stair lift, grab bar, bathroom modification, ramp, or another accessibility solution may be appropriate depending on the property's structure and the resident's specific circumstances.

Stair Ride Company works with Philadelphia-area homeowners to evaluate accessibility options based on factors such as staircase configuration, bathroom layout, entrances, available space, and individual mobility requirements.

As Philadelphia's older population continues to grow, home accessibility is likely to remain an important consideration for homeowners and families planning for changing mobility needs.

About Stair Ride Company
Stair Ride Company provides stair lifts and home accessibility solutions for homeowners throughout the Philadelphia area. The company helps individuals and families evaluate options for adapting existing homes to changing mobility needs.

Media Contact

Stair Ride Company
Phone: 215-442-1531
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