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Welcome to
Aging with Aurora
My name is Dawn Heiderscheidt. I am a Home Accessibility Consultant in the Philadelphia Region.
I help you increase your knowledge and access to accessibility information to reach your goal to remain in Home Sweet Home.
Working with primarily older adults, their caregivers, and those with chronic conditions, I have learned that our homes need to accommodate us at any stage of life, instead of us changing because our homes aren't ready.

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When “Going Home” Feels Like the Only Option
Patients are being discharged with higher-acuity needs at a time when care coverage is limited, and costs are rising. Families often travel across state lines or take unpaid time off work simply to be present for critical moments, such as specialist visits that took months to schedule. Or the discharge home from the hospital or rehab.
2 days ago3 min read


Recognizing When an Elderly Loved One May Need More Support While Visiting for the Holidays
Holiday visits can reveal subtle signs that an elderly loved one may need more support at home—from difficulty with stairs to hesitation in the bathroom or changes in daily habits. Paying attention with care can help you catch early cues and offer support before safety becomes a concern.
Dec 1, 20252 min read


Preparing Your Home for the Holidays When Elderly Guests Are Visiting
Hosting elderly loved ones this holiday season? A few simple home tweaks, like better lighting, safer walkways, and cozy, accessible spaces, can make your home welcoming and worry-free for everyone.
Nov 21, 20252 min read


From Uncertainty at Home to Hope
This recent project began with uncertainty and fear but became a powerful example of what’s possible when healthcare insight, design collaboration, and empathy work together.
Nov 6, 20254 min read


Aging in Place: The Shift Toward Highly Personalized Solutions
Personalized aging-in-place planning is about seeing each person as more than their physical abilities or limitations. It’s about recognizing emotional connections, personal routines, and the rhythms of daily life.
Oct 28, 20252 min read


How Smart Home Technology Is Changing the Way We Age in Place
Aging in place is easier than ever thanks to technology that works with people, not just around them. From voice-activated lights to fall sensors, the right tools can make home safer, simpler, and more empowering.
Oct 8, 20252 min read


Preparing Your Home for an Elderly Parent Returning from the Hospital: Why Occupational Therapy Matters
Many middle-aged adults find themselves balancing careers, children, and caregiving. Involving an OT not only ensures your parent’s safety but also relieves some of the burden from your shoulders. You don’t have to guess what changes are necessary or worry if you’ve overlooked something important—an OT brings clinical expertise to guide you.
Sep 29, 20252 min read


Full Renovation vs. Targeted Adaptations: Finding the Right Fit for Aging in Place
When planning to age in place, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to pursue a full home renovation or opt for targeted...
Aug 5, 20253 min read


Designing Spaces That Truly Work: Universal, Inclusive, and Human-Centered Design for Your Home
Imagine walking into your bathroom first thing in the morning. The space is calm and safe. You can reach everything you need without...
Jul 29, 20254 min read


What Does Fall Prevention Really Look Like?
We think it's exercises and weights with sweat in places we don't want to think about. But it really looks like twenty older adults...
Jun 26, 20252 min read


Beating the Heat at Home: Real Strategies for Real People
This past Monday, I woke up in a panic. I didn’t hear the hum of my air conditioner and immediately thought, “Did we lose power...
Jun 26, 20253 min read


Minimalism vs. Accessibility: Why Less is More for Aging in Place
When you hear “minimalism,” you might think of trendy magazines or fancy homes with barely a chair in them. But for those of us who want...
May 14, 20252 min read


Designing for the Senses: How Sound, Smell & Touch Influence Aging in Place
When people think about “aging in place,” they often picture ramps, grab bars, or wider doorways. While those features are important,...
Apr 14, 20253 min read


Designing for the Senses: How Sound, Smell & Touch Influence Aging in Place
When we think about making a home accessible for aging in place, we often picture things like ramps, grab bars, and wide doorways. But...
Mar 17, 20253 min read


The Future of Aging in Place: What We Can Learn from Smart Cities & Universal Design
Aging in place used to be about grab bars and wider doorways—but as technology, urban planning, and home design evolve, so should our...
Feb 17, 20252 min read


Timeless Living with Expert Tips for Aging in Place
As the population ages, the concept of "aging in place" has gained significant attention in the realm of home design. The idea is to...
Jan 14, 20253 min read


🎉Heading into the New Year- 5 years🎉
Aurora Independence didn’t begin with a grand opening or a big launch. It started as a slow burn, born from a simple yet pivotal moment...
Dec 31, 20242 min read


Future Proofing Your Home for Aging in Place
Think forward for the future of your home!
Dec 16, 20242 min read


Designing a Kitchen for Aging in Place: Easy Tips to Stay Safe and Independent
As we get older, our needs change, and our homes should change too! The idea of "aging in place" means staying in your home as you age,...
Nov 14, 20242 min read


Designing a Home for Aging in Place: Comfortable and Adaptable Furniture
These quick furniture tips are great for aging in place and improving adaptability!
Oct 16, 20243 min read
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