Donna Jenkins founder of Liveable Spaces NY

From Physical Therapist to Home Modification Consultant: Why I Founded Liveable Spaces NY

Hello, I’m Donna Jenkins, the founder of Liveable Spaces NY. For my first blog post, I wanted to introduce myself, share a bit about my background, and explain why I started this company.

I’ve spent over 25 years in the healthcare field as a licensed physical therapist, working in various settings such as outpatient orthopedic rehab, early intervention, skilled nursing, rehabilitation facilities, and home healthcare. Most of my career has been dedicated to home health care, where I’ve had the opportunity to help people directly in their homes, addressing their unique challenges.

Through my work in home care, I’ve witnessed the struggles many older adults face as their homes—once places of comfort and cherished memories—become difficult to navigate due to the physical changes that come with aging. These homes, which served them well for years, often weren’t designed to meet their evolving needs. Unfortunately, this leads to increased difficulty using mobility devices and, too often, dangerous falls. As a physical therapist, I’m usually called in after these falls, helping patients recover and recommend adjustments to their homes to prevent further injuries.

Over time, I’ve also seen families invest in home modifications that simply didn’t meet their needs. Despite their best efforts and significant financial commitments, these changes were often inadequate, leaving the home environment unsafe and the family frustrated. Meanwhile, alternative living options, like assisted living—costing anywhere from $7,000 to $12,000 per month—are out of reach for many people on fixed incomes. Renting presents similar financial challenges, leaving families feeling stuck.

These experiences led me to create Liveable Spaces NY, a consulting company that focuses on helping older adults live safely and comfortably in their own homes by offering personalized home modification solutions. But aging isn’t the only factor that can create challenges within a home. I’ve worked with many younger patients who, due to sudden injuries or illnesses, find their homes difficult to navigate. Liveable Spaces NY is here to empower people of all ages to make practical, thoughtful modifications that not only improve safety but also enhance quality of life.

I’m passionate about helping people stay in their homes and age with dignity, comfort, and peace of mind.

Let’s create safe, livable spaces together.

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