Our housing needs and preferences tend to change as we grow older, and there comes a time when we need to determine whether we’ll be happiest (and safest) aging in place or downsizing into a smaller home or apartment. In many cases, we need to decide whether to modify our existing homes for aging in place, buy a more suitable home for our senior years, or transition into an independent or assisted living community.
Check out this article to learn more about these housing options and how to choose the best home for your senior years.
Modifying Your Home
As you age, you may find that you’re unable to get around as well as you once could — or perhaps your senses aren’t what they used to be. Or maybe you have a medical condition that could worsen over time, but you’d prefer to remain in your home if possible.
This is where home modifications come in. Many types of modifications can be made to make your home more accessible for aging in place, such as maximizing the lighting throughout your house, widening the hallways and doorways for wheelchair access, installing stairlifts in multi-level homes, and moving your laundry room to the main floor.
If you’d prefer to remain in your home, there are several ways to pay for housing modifications. As one option, you could refinance your home to lower your monthly mortgage payment and free up some cash for your modifications.
Moving to an Independent Living Community
As you enter your senior years, you may be ready to say goodbye to homeownership — but not your independence. This is what makes independent living communities so great. You can enjoy the benefits of living independently in your Golden Years, without all the maintenance, stress, and added costs that go into owning a home.
While independent living communities vary widely, many offer services and amenities such as:
● Housekeeping and home maintenance.
● Laundry.
● Meals.
● Social activities.
● Transportation.
● Walking paths.
When choosing an independent living community, it’s important to think about the services and amenities that are most important to you — as well as your monthly housing budget.
Transitioning Into Assisted Living
If you have medical needs and you’re looking for supportive care as you grow older, an assisted living community may be the best housing option for you. These communities provide residents with personalized medical care, and they assist seniors with everything from dressing and bathing to feeding and housekeeping.
Some assisted living communities offer studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments, and companion suites. Other amenities include yoga, games, arts and crafts, religious services, and a fitness center.
Do your research before touring Miami-area assisted living homes. This includes reading reviews, finding out about amenities, and learning about costs and payment options.
What Is the Best Housing Option for You?
Choosing the right housing option for your senior years isn’t a decision you’ll make overnight, and it’s important to give yourself plenty of time to consider your wants and needs. Do you hope to remain in your current home, downsize into a smaller house, or would you prefer to live near other seniors in an independent or assisted living community? There are many options to consider, and the right type of housing for you will depend on your current home, housing budget, and medical needs.
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Lacie Martin
Raisethemwell.org
Image via Pexels
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