Each day many senior citizens face the reality of no longer being able to live independently in their homes due to physical ailments or lack of ability. What is their recourse?

Some move into an assisted living facility or nursing home. According to the AARP, however, a recent survey found that seven in 10 seniors who are able to make changes to their homes are then able to continue living independently, even if the change is minimal.

Two thirds of those who made home modifications believe those improvements allow them to live in their homes, longer than they would have been otherwise - at least another 10 years.

Seniors spend billions of dollars each year on home improvements. Based the AARP survey, the top 10 reported improvements are:

Levered doorknobs

Grab bars in bathrooms

Levered faucets in kitchen sinks

Handrails on both sides of stairwells and on front and rear steps

Grab bars in showers; removal of any door threshhold

Moveable shower heads for those who must sit in the shower

Portable shower seats

A bathroom with a bath/shower, as well as a bedroom on the first floor

Widened doors to accommodate wheelchairs

Ramps for those using walkers or wheelchairs.

For anyone making a home improvement, consult a reputable contractor, plan out your modifications in advance and choose financing that's right for you.