About Boston, Massachusetts

Boston is one of the oldest cities in the country, filled with historic homes, brownstones, triple-deckers, and narrow-layout residences that were built long before accessibility standards existed. This makes professional home accessibility remodeling essential for seniors and individuals with mobility challenges who want to remain safely in their homes.

We help Boston homeowners modify historic and modern properties with wheelchair ramps, accessible showers, stair lifts for narrow stairs, and aging-in-place upgrades — always respecting the architectural character that makes Boston unique.

Our team also assists residents in applying for the Massachusetts Home Modification Loan Program (HMLP), which offers up to $50,000 in low or no-interest loans for accessibility renovations. We guide you through the application process from start to finish.

Wheelchair Ramps and Entry Access Solutions

Creating a safe and accessible entrance is the foundation of home independence. We design and build wheelchair ramps throughout Boston using wood, aluminum, and custom-blended materials that integrate seamlessly into historic or modern neighborhoods.

We install:

• Permanent and portable residential ramps
• Wheelchair ramps for stairs, porches, and elevated entries
• Mini ramps for thresholds, transitions, and interior steps

All ramps are built to meet safety standards and ensure smooth, secure access in all New England weather conditions.

Stair Lifts for Seniors in Boston Homes

Boston’s classic brownstones and multi-level homes often include steep or narrow staircases — a major challenge for aging residents. We install Savaria/Handicare stair lifts designed for both tight turns and straight runs.

Options include:

• Model 1100: Straight stair lifts for single-flight stairs
• Model 1000: Outdoor and heavy-duty stair lifts
• Model 2000: Curved stair lifts for multi-landing layouts

Most Boston stair lifts are installed in a single day by our factory-trained team.

Accessible Bathrooms & Shower Design

Bathrooms are one of the highest-risk areas for falls, especially in older Boston homes with compact layouts. We design fully accessible bathrooms with safety, comfort, and modern style in mind.

Our Boston bathroom remodeling services include:

• Roll-in and walk-in showers
• Accessible showers for small bathrooms
• Grab bars for toilets, tubs, and showers
• Comfort-height toilets and widened doorways
• Non-slip flooring and zero-threshold transitions

We ensure placements of grab bars and fixtures follow best-practice ergonomic guidelines tailored to your needs.

Wheelchair Lifts, Elevators & Platform Lift Installation

When ramps are not feasible, a residential lift provides safe vertical mobility. We design and install wheelchair lifts and home elevators that fit seamlessly into Boston’s diverse architecture.

Options include:

• Vertical Platform Lifts (VPLs)
• Short-rise platform lifts
• Residential elevators with customizable finishes

All installations comply with Massachusetts safety codes and are ideal for wheelchairs, walkers, and scooters.

Kitchen Remodeling for Accessibility & Aging in Place

Boston kitchens are often compact — but with the right design, they can still be fully accessible. We remodel kitchens to enhance mobility, visibility, and safety while preserving your preferred style.

Improvements may include:

• Lowered countertops and accessible sinks
• Open layouts for wheelchair maneuvering
• Pull-down shelving and accessible hardware
• Touch-control fixtures and accessible appliances

We design kitchens that support comfort and independence long-term.

Garage Conversions & Independent Living Suites

Garage conversions are increasingly popular in Boston’s urban neighborhoods where space is limited. These conversions create fully accessible, private living areas for aging parents or loved ones with mobility needs.

Converted suites may include:

• Accessible bathrooms with roll-in showers
• Open-layout kitchens
• Bedroom and living areas designed for full mobility

Garage conversions offer a cost-effective alternative to major additions.

Aging in Place Remodeling for Boston Seniors

As certified Aging-in-Place (CAPS) specialists, we understand the physical and emotional considerations of remaining at home. We create safe, barrier-free environments that protect long-term well-being.

Common modifications include:

• Zero-threshold entrances
• Widened doorways
• Grab bars
• Accessible bathroom upgrades
• Stair lifts for seniors

Every project is tailored to your needs, lifestyle, and long-term comfort.

Help With Financing Accessible Home Remodeling Near Boston, MA

Accessibility remodeling in Boston can be affordable with the right financial programs. We help homeowners secure funding through:

• Massachusetts Home Modification Loan Program (HMLP) — up to $50,000
  • Veterans’ grants including SAH and HISA
  • Local nonprofit and senior-support grants

We handle documentation and application support to make financing easy.

Do We Meet ADA Standards?

ADA Standards are used nationally as a public standard for accessibility compliance. While ADA standards are often a useful guide, the work performed in residential homes need not meet strict national ADA standards and is not always the best option for our clients. Most home projects are designed to meet the specific needs of the homeowner.

Why Boston Homeowners Trust Operation Independence

With over 25 years of specialized accessibility construction experience, we bring unmatched expertise to every project.

Boston homeowners choose us because:

• We’re a fully licensed Massachusetts accessibility contractor
• Our work meets MA building and safety codes
• We collaborate with universal design specialists when needed
• Our crew is factory-trained for all installations
• We treat every home as if it were our own

Common Questions About Home Accessibility in Boston

Can older Boston homes be retrofitted for accessibility?

Absolutely. We routinely modify historic brownstones, triple-deckers, and early-20th-century homes to improve accessibility without compromising architectural charm.

Do you help with financing for accessibility projects?

Yes. We assist Boston homeowners in applying for multiple programs, including the Massachusetts HMLP. You can also review statewide assistance options here:
https://operationindependence.net/massachusetts-aging-in-place-construction/

How long does it take to install a stair lift?

Most stair lifts can be installed in a single day, depending on the model and stair configuration.

What’s included in a free phone assessment?

We review photos of your home’s entryways, bathrooms, stairs, and living spaces, then identify risks and recommend suitable accessibility improvements.

Do you provide accessible kitchen and bathroom remodeling?

Yes. We offer full-service kitchen and bathroom accessibility remodeling tailored to Boston’s unique home layouts.

Related Terms

Accessible bathroom remodeling, wheelchair ramps Boston, custom stair lifts Boston MA, home accessibility contractor, aging-in-place remodeling, ADA bathroom upgrades, vertical platform lifts, home elevators Massachusetts, garage conversions Boston, home modification financing MA

Additional Resources

• City of Boston Disability Commission – Home Modification Resources
  • Massachusetts Office on Disability – Accessibility Programs

Expand Your Knowledge

• Massachusetts Home Modification Loan Program (HMLP)
• National Institute on Aging – Aging in Place Guidance