10 Easy Father’s Day Weekend Projects to Support Dad’s Aging in Place

Any man can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a dad.

– Anne Geddes

 Aging in Place

Ok, you shot your wad on Mother’s Day and you’re out of ideas for Father’s Day. Historically the day revolves around a store-bought tie, a generic “#1 Dad” mug, and a rushed dinner reservation or worse yet, pizza to go. It’s well-meaning—but often forgettable, blending into a long line of identical celebrations…(YAWN).

Father’s Day is a time to show appreciation for good Dear OLD’ Dad, but what if you could also show support for your dad’s INTER-independence and well-being at home? Aging in place means making the home safer, more comfortable, and easier to navigate as we grow older. This Father’s Day, consider giving him the gift of meaning and longevity by tackling a few thoughtful home updates together. Here are a few not-too-complicated weekend projects that can have a big impact on his quality of life—and they’re all doable without a contractor.

Start with a few high-impact changes (Consult YouTube)

10 Easy Father’s Day weekend aging-in-place projects, each with simple how-to steps you can do with your dad—most supplies available at Home Depot or any hardware store:

1. Install Grab Bars in the Bathroom

How To:

• Buy textured, ADA-compliant grab bars.
• Use a stud finder and drill into studs with proper anchors.
• Install bars near the toilet and inside the shower.
• Dad Job: Help pick the style and height for comfort.

2. Replace Doorknobs with Lever Handles

How To:

• Choose lever-style handles for easier grip.
• Unscrew old knobs and install new levers.
• Dad Job: Try them out in-store to test hand comfort.

3. Change Out to Brighter LED Light Bulbs

How To:

• Choose 100W equivalent LED bulbs labeled “daylight” (5000K).
• Replace bulbs in hallways, kitchens, and reading areas.
• Dad Job: Point out dim spots in the house to improve.

4. Install a Handheld Shower Head with Slide Bar

How To:

• Remove the old head, apply plumber’s tape, and attach the handheld model.
• Dad Job: Test water pressure and spray settings—instant spa upgrade.

5. Apply Anti-Slip Skid Strips to Indoor or Outdoor Steps

How To:

• Buy pre-cut anti-slip tape or adhesive stair treads.
• Clean the step surface and apply evenly across each step.
• Dad Job: Walk the steps and identify which feel unsafe.

6. Install Modern Smoke & CO2 Detectors

How To:

• Replace outdated alarms with dual-sensor, long-life models.
• Use a ladder and screwdriver or follow wall mount instructions.
• Dad Job: Test the alarm sounds and check battery levels together.

7. Add Motion Sensor Night Lights (Indoors)

How To:

• Plug in motion lights along the path from bed to bathroom.
• Choose battery-operated models for stairwells or closets.
• Dad Job: Take a nighttime walk to test them out.

8. Install Outdoor Motion-Sensor Pathway Lights

How To:

• Choose solar-powered or wired LED pathway lights with motion sensors.
• Install along the sidewalk, driveway, or backyard trail.
• Dad Job: Decide where to put them for visibility and safety.

9. Design and Build a Raised Garden Bed

How To:

• Purchase cedar or composite boards, corner brackets, and soil mix.
• Build a 3’x6′ raised bed about 24″ high for easy access.
• Dad Job: Pick the veggies or herbs and plan the layout.

10. Set Up a Smart Voice Assistant (Tech Project)

How To:

• Plug in a Google Nest or Amazon Echo, download the app, and connect WiFi.
• Show how to set reminders, play music, or call you with voice commands.
• Dad Job: Ask it to tell a joke or play his favorite music—then smile.

Do a walk through home assessment together

Here’s how you can turn Father’s Day into a meaningful, empowering experience by doing a walk-through aging-in-place home assessment together; a gift of your time, safety, and dignity.

A Walk-Through Home Assessment with Dad

Objective: Identify small changes that will help Dad stay safer, more comfortable, and independent in his home for years to come. Bonus: It’s a great way to bond, reminisce, and make plans together.

How to Do It: Room-by-Room, One Conversation at a Time

Start at the Front Entry

• Is there a step-free way into the home?
• Are the handrails sturdy and secure?
• Is there enough lighting at night?
  Add motion-sensor lights or solar pathway lights.

Living Room & Hallways

• Are rugs secured or curling up?
• Are pathways clear and wide enough for easy movement?
• Is the lighting bright enough, especially in the evening?
  Use rug grippers and add brighter LED bulbs or stick-on lights.

Kitchen

• Are frequently used items within easy reach (no high shelves)?
• Are knobs and handles easy to grip?
  Consider pull-down shelving, lever faucets, or ergonomic tools.

Bathroom

• Is the shower easy to enter without stepping over a tub?
• Is there a non-slip mat and grab bars installed?
• Is the toilet height comfortable?
  Install grab bars, a handheld showerhead, or a raised toilet seat.

Bedroom

• Is there a clear path to the bathroom?
• Is the bed height manageable for getting in and out?
  Place motion sensor night lights between the bed and bathroom.

Stairs & Floors

• Are there skid strips or carpeting on stairs?
• Are handrails on both sides?
  Add stair treads, install second handrails if needed.

Garage, Basement, or Workshop

• Are tools and chemicals safely stored?
• Is there good lighting and minimal clutter?
  Add lighting and declutter as a team—make it a memory-sharing moment.

Final Touch: Technology Together

Ask: “Dad, what do you wish was easier to do?”
Install a smart assistant, set up medication reminders, or test a video doorbell.

Why This Matters

Walking through the house with Dad shows respect, not judgment. It’s involving him in the decision making (agency) not about what’s wrong, rather planning together for what’s next.

Use this practical checklist to identify small upgrades that make a big difference in comfort, safety, and independence at home.

General Home Safety

• Replace dim bulbs with bright, daylight LED bulbs

• Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in key rooms

• Ensure light switches are easy to reach and operate

• Install motion-sensor nightlights in halls and bathrooms

• Remove loose rugs or secure them with non-slip backing

• Place skid strips or grip tape on all indoor/outdoor steps

• Add contrasting tape or paint to stair edges

• Declutter walkways and remove tripping hazards

• Ensure furniture is stable and not obstructing paths

Entryways & Exits

• Add sturdy handrails on both sides of steps

• Install a ramp with non-slip surface if needed

• Check that doorways are wide enough for walkers or wheelchairs

• Use lever-style door handles instead of knobs

• Add motion-sensor lights to outdoor walkways

• Ensure house numbers are visible from the street

Living Areas

• Arrange furniture to create wide pathways

• Secure electrical cords along walls

• Use chairs with armrests for ease when sitting or standing

• Add stable shelving for frequently used items

• Keep phones or emergency alert systems accessible

Bathroom

• Install grab bars in the shower and near the toilet

• Use a walk-in or curbless shower if possible

• Place a non-slip mat or strips inside and outside the tub

• Add a shower chair and hand-held showerhead

• Raise the toilet seat or install a toilet safety frame

• Ensure adequate lighting with no shadows

Kitchen

• Keep frequently used items within arm’s reach

• Use easy-grip utensils and tools

• Install pull-out shelves in cabinets

• Ensure flooring is non-slip and level

• Use a step stool with handrails if necessary

• Store a fire extinguisher within easy access

Bedroom

• Make sure the bed is easy to get in and out of

• Add a lamp or nightlight within arm’s reach

• Place a phone or alert device by the bed

• Ensure pathways to the bathroom are well lit

• Use a bed assist rail if needed for stability

Outdoor Areas & Yard

• Repair uneven or cracked walkways

• Trim overgrown plants blocking paths or lights

• Add raised garden beds to reduce bending

• Install secure handrails on steps or porches

• Make sure outdoor lighting is bright and reliable

Optional Upgrades That Add Big Value

• Install a video doorbell or smart security system

• Upgrade to smart thermostats and automated lights

• Add voice-controlled assistants like Alexa or Google Home

• Schedule a professional home safety assessment

See

This Father’s Day, instead of guessing what he wants, give Dad a Home Depot gift card and invite him to choose which aging-in-place project he wants to tackle first. Pair it with the home assessment checklist you walked through together and say:

“Dad, I want to help you make your home even better—your choice, your pace. You pick one project to start this weekend, and we’ll do another one together on your birthday, and maybe another on Thanksgiving. This is your Project Passport.”

Why It Works

• Puts him in control — He chooses what matters most.
• Builds connection — You work on it together.
• Creates tradition — Each milestone or holiday becomes a reason to revisit the list.
• Completes the vision — By year’s end, his home becomes safer, smarter, and more comfortable.

• Bonus Tip: This Father’s Day, a screwdriver and some quality time might be the best gifts of all. End the day with a cold drink and a laugh—nothing beats Father’s Day quality time and a safer home.