Why is it so hard to find an economical home that's designed in an elderly-friendly manner?

jbzook, good question. Here in my area, northern Virginia, it is booming with 55+ housing communities... every type and style of housing one can imagine. You live on your own but the community does offer assistance if needed, such as falling, security is trained on the proper way of picking up someone. And there are communities that if you find living on your own too much you move onto the next phase.

You are right, there needs to be more economical homes for seniors as the 55+ places are a bit pricey. My area has outstanding hospitals, urgent cares, physicians, etc. so the builders know they will make a profit building these communities. It all depends on the demographics of an area.

I often ask myself why building codes still seem to be stuck in the dark ages when it comes to making homes accessible. To retrofit an old home may be cost prohibitive, but why are new homes still being built with more attention given to grand entryways and fancy kitchens than to practical concerns like wider doors and hallways, barrier free entrances and at least one accessible bathroom? There is an architectural movement called universal design that focuses on the needs of all ages and abilities in house design, and these homes are not in any way institutional.
I think the reality is that the housing market is driven by the idea that homes are built for a healthy 30 something mom, dad and two kids, and buyers are not looking that far into the future. Older folks are still living in those homes where they raised their families trying to make do until they are forced into apartments or assisted living.
(BTW, I have a nephew that delivers furniture and often larger items can not fit into brand new homes. You have to wonder who is designing these houses!)