Home accessibility remodels are rising as chronic illness and an aging population increase. Learn the top 10 long-term health issues that prompt changes: ramps, roll-in showers, stairlifts, wider doorways, and local facts for Cherokee County and nearby communities.
Cherokee County is growing fast! An estimated ~292–297K residents (2024–2025 estimates) — and with that growth comes more households that include older adults or people living with chronic conditions who need safer, more accessible homes. World Population Review+1
Below are the 10 long-term conditions most likely to drive a homeowner to remodel, what changes usually help, and local/statewide data that show why these projects matter.
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1. Osteoarthritis & degenerative joint disease
Why it matters: Arthritis is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting mobility and daily living. Age-related joint pain makes stairs, high tubs, and narrow hallways barriers to independence. Nationwide adult arthritis prevalence is substantial (~21% of adults), and it’s especially common with other chronic illnesses. CDC
Remodel priority: zero-threshold/curbless showers, grab bars, higher toilets, non-slip flooring, lever handles.
2. Mobility impairment (wheelchair / walker users)
Why it matters: Injuries, spinal conditions, or progressive diseases may require wheelchairs or walkers—these need wider doors, ramps, and accessible bathrooms. Remodel priority: ramped entries, 36″+ doorways, lowered counters, widened hallways, roll-in showers.
3. Stroke & post-stroke disability
Why it matters: Strokes often cause lasting weakness or balance loss; quick home adaptations reduce fall risk and support rehabilitation. Remodel priority: single-level living, stairlifts or bedroom/bathroom on the main floor, reinforced grab bars, accessible sinks/toilets.
4. Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias
Why it matters: Georgia now tracks rising numbers of dementia — over 130,000 Georgians are estimated to have Alzheimer’s or related dementia, and that figure is expected to grow as the population ages. Home modifications can make a home safer and simplify routines. Georgia Department of Public Health
Remodel priority: simplified layouts, secure entries, good lighting, clear sight lines, sensor lighting, non-slip surfaces.
5. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) / severe respiratory disease
Why it matters: COPD patients may need oxygen equipment, cleaner indoor air, and layouts that reduce exertion. County and national COPD surveillance shows important geographic variation and a measurable local burden. CDC
Remodel priority: HVAC upgrades/air filtration, single-level living, lowered appliances, space for medical equipment.
6. Diabetes (complications like neuropathy and wounds)
Why it matters: Diabetes is common in Georgia (over ~12% of adults statewide have a diagnosis), and diabetic foot problems plus neuropathy increase fall and wound risks. Homes that limit fall risk and allow easy bathing/care are essential. Georgia Department of Public Health
Remodel priority: walk-in showers, anti-slip floors, brighter lighting, easier kitchen access.
7. Visual impairment / low vision
Why it matters: Age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic eye disease reduce vision and increase fall risk.
Remodel priority: high-contrast trim, glare-reducing lighting, consistent floor materials, tactile markers, rounded counters.
8. Balance disorders & vestibular conditions
Why it matters: Chronic dizziness or vertigo leads to very high fall risk; small changes can dramatically reduce accidents.
Remodel priority: continuous handrails, non-slip steps, fewer level changes, bathroom support systems.
9. Obesity with associated mobility limits
Why it matters: Obesity can limit mobility and increase strain on joints, making wider doors, reinforced fixtures, and lift-capable seating important.
Remodel priority: wider circulation zones, reinforced seating, stronger grab bars, no-step entries.
10. Neuromuscular / progressive neurological diseases (e.g., Parkinson’s, MS)
Why it matters: These conditions often progress over years and benefit from forward-looking, flexible remodels that accommodate changing needs.
Remodel priority: modular solutions (room conversion), power-assisted doors, bathroom design that supports caregivers.
Here is the breakdown :
| Health Issue | Approximate Affected Population in Georgia* | Typical Home Needs | Home Modifications to Restore Freedom |
| Osteoarthritis / degenerative joint disease | ~ 25-26% of Georgia adults have doctor-diagnosed arthritis (≈ 1.89 million) in the state. (Arthritis Foundation) | Reduced mobility, pain when using stairs/tubs/thresholds, difficulty with fine motor controls | Curbless/zero-threshold showers; grab bars; higher toilet seats; non-slip flooring; lever-style door and faucet handles; widened doorways/hallways; single-floor living; adjustable countertop heights |
| Mobility impairment (wheelchair / walker users) | Specific state-wide numbers not listed, but a sizable subset of older adults and others will apply | Need barrier-free access, enough clearance and support for assistive devices | Ramp entries; no-step entries; 36″+ doorways; hallways widened; roll-in showers or accessible bath; lowered kitchen/bath counters; adjustable shelving; stairlift or home elevator; reinforced walls for grab bars |
| Stroke & post-stroke disability | Georgia is in the “Stroke Belt” and has a higher death/disability rate for stroke. (Georgia Department of Public Health) | Hemiparesis/weakness, balance issues, risk of falls, need for caregiver access | Bedroom & full-bath on main floor; open floor plan; stairlift or relocation of living spaces; non-slip flooring; continuous handrails; bathroom roll-in or large accessible shower; clear circulation space; wide door openings; lowering switches/outlets |
| Alzheimer’s / dementia & related cognitive decline | Georgia data: Alzheimer’s/dementia counts rising though exact % for county not in table here | Simpler layouts, clear sight-lines, safe navigation, minimal hazards | Good lighting (day & night); sensor lighting; non-slip contrasting flooring; secure doors/windows; minimal thresholds; open plan with visual connectivity; signage/way-finding; door locks under caregiver control; reduced clutter; lever handles |
| COPD / chronic respiratory disease | ~ 6.2% of adults in Georgia reported COPD, emphysema or chronic bronchitis. (America’s Health Rankings) | Need easier breathing, less exertion, convenient placement of equipment | HVAC with high-quality filtration; single-level living; minimal stairs; wide hallways; space for oxygen equipment; easy-to-clean surfaces; improved natural light/ventilation; no-step entries; low-maintenance surfaces; lowered shelves |
| Diabetes (with complications such as neuropathy, wounds) | ~ 12.1% of Georgia adults have diagnosed diabetes (≈ 1,024,100) (American Diabetes Association) | Foot/leg problems, neuropathy, vision concerns, need safe bathing & grooming | Walk-in showers; bench seating in bath; anti-slip flooring; well-lit hallways/rooms; accessible sink heights; lever-handles; ramp/no-step entries; easy kitchen access for healthy cooking; lower counters; wide thresolds; good ventilation; large-format door hardware |
| Visual impairment / low vision | In Georgia, more than 255,000 people report blindness or severe difficulty seeing even with glasses. (CDC Stacks) | Difficulty navigating home safely, increased fall risk, need for contrast/lighting/cues | High-contrast trim and edges; glare-reducing, bright lighting; consistent flooring material; tactile markers; large-print switches; lever handles; eliminate unnecessary thresholds; improve hallway and stair lighting; motion sensors; open layout; minimized clutter |
| Balance disorders & vestibular issues | Specific statewide % not found, but many older adults and post-stroke or neurologic patients fall into this category | High risk of falls, need support, fewer level changes, easier toilet/bath access | Continuous handrails; non-slip stair tread and floors; no-step entries; minimal level changes; bathroom support system (grab bars, fold-down seat); stairlift or relocation of primary suite to main floor; wide hallways; clear floorplan; motion-sensor lighting |
| Obesity with associated mobility limits | Georgia adult obesity ~37.0% per recent data. (American Diabetes Association) | Larger body size, reduced mobility, need for stronger supports, wider access | Wider doorways/hallways; wider shower seat; reinforced grab bars and seating; ramp/no-step entry; low-threshold shower; larger circulation space; adjustable-height countertops and sinks; stairlift or relocation options; seating areas with correct ergonomic support; non-slip flooring |
| Neuromuscular / progressive neurological diseases (e.g., Parkinson’s, MS) | Specific Georgia prevalence not listed in state summary, but nationally significant | Progressive loss of strength/coordination, need for future flexibility, caregiver access | Modular/adaptable layouts; space reserved for lift/hoist; power-assisted doors; roll-in showers; bathroom on main level; wide doorways; no thresholds; space for caregiver equipment; adjustable cabinetry; smart-home integration (voice controls, sensors); open floor plan to accommodate changing mobility needs |
Local context: why Cherokee County & neighbors need accessible homes
Cherokee County is part of the fast-growing Atlanta exurbs; that growth includes more older adults and households with chronic disease needs, increasing demand for “aging in place” remodels. Neighboring counties include Forsyth, Cobb, Fulton, Pickens, Dawson, Bartow, and Gordon: all part of the regional demographic shift that’s increasing demand for accessible housing across the area. US County Maps+1
Public health data and local health assessments repeatedly identify chronic disease, inactivity/obesity, and aging as community needs. Factors that directly translate into a higher local demand for accessible, safe home environments.
At Design & Remodel Brothers, we understand that a home should evolve with its owners, not hold them back. Whether you or a loved one is living with mobility challenges, recovering from an illness, or simply planning for a safer future, our team is here to help make your home comfortable, functional, and beautiful again. We specialize in every aspect of accessibility remodeling: from selecting the right materials to professional installation, all backed by comprehensive warranties on both material and labor. Every project we take on is handled with care, respect, and attention to your specific needs. If you or someone you care about is facing new challenges at home, call us today, and let’s create a space that brings back comfort, confidence, and freedom.
Design & Remodel Brothers
Serving our local market and surrounding communities
📞 (404) 490 3023
🌐 www.DnrBros.com
📍9550 Main St. Woodstock, GA 30188
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