Aging in Place
Best Smart Locks for Aging in Place
The right lock removes the fumbling-for-keys moment and gives family a way in during an emergency.
Written by David Chen
Reviewed by Elena Marsh
Updated August 26, 2026
Fact-checked August 26, 2026
2 min read
Editorial policyWe may earn a commission if you purchase through links on this page. This does not affect our recommendations.
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Problem: keys are hard at the door
Arthritis, low light, and a full grocery bag make a key cylinder difficult. A keypad or fingerprint lock removes the fine motor task entirely and takes about 20 minutes to install with a screwdriver on most standard doors.
Problem: family needs occasional access
A separate code per person is the feature that matters here. A visiting aide gets a code that works only on their days, an adult child keeps a permanent one, and neither requires handing out a physical key that can be copied.
What to look for
- Large, backlit keypad buttons with clear tactile feedback
- A keyway or key backup, not just a battery jump terminal
- Auto-lock with an adjustable delay, so the door is never left unlocked
- Notifications to a family member's phone when the door is unlocked
- Works over Wi-Fi or an existing hub, without a monthly fee for basic use
Brands worth comparing
eufy, Schlage, Yale, and Level all sell keypad locks that meet the criteria above. We researched published specifications and support documentation rather than testing them on a door.
Compare smart locks
Links open the manufacturer or retailer site. We do not compare live prices, so check the seller for current pricing and availability.
Frequently asked questions
What happens in a power outage?
Smart locks run on their own batteries, so they keep working. Remote unlock needs internet, which usually does not, so keep a keypad code and a physical key as fallbacks.
Are smart locks less secure than regular deadbolts?
Physical security depends on the deadbolt grade and the door frame, not the electronics. Look for an ANSI Grade 1 or 2 rating and reinforce the strike plate.
Keep reading
Sources
- Lock grading standards (ANSI/BHMA) — Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association
- Published lock specifications and support documentation — Manufacturer published specifications
David Chen
Editor, Ramps & Entryways
David covers ramps, entry modifications, and the geometry that decides whether a project costs $1,500 or $9,000. He builds the calculators on this site and checks every dimension against published accessibility guidance before publishing.
Covers: Ramp design · Entryway access · Slope and rise calculations · Porch lifts
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