News Taffy

After the kids leave, many people decide they don’t want the expense and stress of caring for their home anymore and decide to downsize. Concerns about health as they age may also influence their decision. If you have been thinking along these lines, there are many things to consider before you put your house on the market and start shopping for a new place to call home. Start planning early so you can be proactive rather than reactive as your needs change. Maintain a healthy mental attitude by approaching this process as a way of preparing for a new chapter in your life. You will be able to do the things that you want to do, such as travel, rather than worrying over things you’d rather not, like lawn care.

First, consider whether it is a sound financial decision to sell your house given the current market in your area, especially if you own it free and clear. It may make more sense to remodel the house so you can age in place. Some contractors have experience in remodeling homes so they are safe and comfortable for all ages and abilities. See if you can find a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) for a consultation on updating your home. Everyone has different needs as they age, but consider the following areas whether you plan to remodel, look for a smaller home or move to assisted living.

A single floor home is easier to navigate than one with stairs. Look for wider doorways, multilevel kitchen counters and easy to reach switches and outlets. Thresholds between rooms and throw rugs are trip hazards; they should be covered with ramps or eliminated. Consider whether the laundry and kitchen are easy to use, with plenty of lighting and drawers instead of hard to access cabinets.

The master bedroom should be on the main floor, with plenty of lighting between the bedroom and bathroom. SnapPower night-lights can provide excellent low light in hallways and bathrooms and are inexpensive and easy to install.

The bathroom is a major trouble spot for falls. A no-lip shower can accommodate a wheelchair or walker. Wet tiles are slippery so either add a traction mat or look for less slippery flooring like cork or textured tile. A higher toilet is easier to use, particularly if there is a grab bar beside it. The whole bathroom may need to be larger to allow for wheelchair access or to allow a caregiver room to assist a patient.

Instead of ramps which lower resale values and may be unwieldy, consider an outdoor stair lift or a vertical platform lift if you have difficulty managing steps into the house. Use motion sensor lighting to illuminate walk ways and dark garages.

Consider how close you are to medical care, grocery shopping or emergency services. Do you want to move closer to your children so they can help more as you age? Can you find help with chores like house cleaning and lawn care? With a little planning, many find they can stay at home where they are happiest but others find that a condo in a retirement village suits their needs better and introduces them to a whole community of like minded people.