There comes a time in everyones life when its necessary to find a home to grow old in. Sure, this may conjure up images of shower bars and staircase lifts, but theres much more to a home where you can age in place and frankly, theres much to get excited about when looking for one. Here are a few tips to help your search for the perfect residence to age in place.
Walkability
A neighborhood where you can easily walk to restaurants, shopping and entertainment will only become more desirable with age. Being able to engage with a vibrant community without having to get in your car provides extreme convenience and if the day comes when youre no longer comfortable driving, then walkability is essential.
Space Considerations
An important factor is having a home thats manageably sized. After all, you probably dont want to deal with all of the upkeep and maintenance that comes with a large, sprawling property. However, a few extra bedrooms might be necessary for when your children and grandchildren come to visit. Striking the right balance is key to finding a home that meets your needs.
Luxurious Features
Youve worked hard and now its time to treat yourself. Whether its a backyard oasis where generations can gather or a luxury building with every imaginable amenity, take the time to identify the features that are most important to your lifestyle at this stage and dont feel bad about pampering yourself.
Accessibility
A single-floor residence is generally the preferred choice when purchasing a home to age in place, but its also important to consider the entry points. Will it be an apartment with an elevator or a house with a front door thats easily accessed? A steep staircase at the main entrance is best to be avoided, especially if theres a chance of it getting icy in the winter.
Published with permission from RISMedia.
