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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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Understanding Independent Living Solutions in Philadelphia
When we think about staying in our homes longer, safety and accessibility are key. Independent living solutions focus on adapting living spaces to meet changing needs. This means making homes easier to navigate, reducing fall risks, and ensuring daily tasks can be done with confidence.
Aug 28


Common Home Modifications for Aging in Place in Philadelphia
If you're planning to stay in your Philadelphia-area home as you age, or helping a parent do the same, the list of possible modifications can feel endless. This guide walks through the ones that come up most often, organized by area of the home, with something most lists leave out: why each one matters and when it's actually needed, from an occupational therapist's point of view.
Aug 26


Considering a Walk-In Shower?
Many people find that a combination
of modifications helps make their set-up safer. For example, one person may find that a grab bar, tub cut-out, and shower chair make it easy to get in and out and stay safe while washing. Another person may find that all they need is a tub bench in order to make the process more seamless.
May 26


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


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, 2025


5 Must-have gifts for 2022- Mobility Edition
So, you’ve gone home for the first holidays of your holiday season. You’ve noticed that a loved one is having more trouble. They don’t...
Nov 28, 2022


Age-Tech/Smart Home to Enhance Your Home-And Reduce Falls
Age Tech is Fall prevention when we implement smart home technology as a universal design concept.
Sep 20, 2022


Single Easiest Way to Prevent Falling
A lot of mechanical falls happen, simply because you didn't see the thing you tripped on. It's usually paired with " It happened so...
Sep 19, 2022


6 Steps to Renovating Your Home for a Lifetime
People want to stay at home and participate in life for as long as possible. Sometimes, that feels impossible to do for many reasons. ...
May 2, 2022


Recliners: Do you choose one that lays flat, turns into a bed or that stands you up?
If you are challenged with buying furniture for yourself or for an elderly person, there are a few things you should keep in mind as you...
Nov 1, 2021


Why your home is NOT as safe as you think.
We baby proof homes when toddlers are present, why aren’t we age proofing our homes as we age? The word “Home” encompasses so many...
Sep 2, 2021


Three Things To Help Grandma Not fall.
We all want to protect our parents, grandparents, and loved ones. Falls cost over 31 BILLION, yes BILLION, dollars a year for the...
Jul 25, 2021


Is Exercise a Natural Sleep Aid for Seniors?
Older people experiencing age-related sleep issues are likely to find more long-lasting relief through the use of regular exercise than they
Jul 22, 2021


Jun 26, 2021


Jun 26, 2021
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