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There is no place like home. As much as we wish to stay in our homes as we age, sometimes our homes no longer work for us as they did years ago. The good news is it may not mean you have to move. There are many easy low-cost modifications that can be made to your home to help make it a safer environment, and support services that can be put in place that will allow you to comfortably stay independent in your current home.
Aging in place means being able to live in the home of your choice for as long as you are able, while being able to get assistance you require as your needs change. To age-in-place does not always mean staying in your CURRENT home -- it means staying in the right home. The options are wide open; the home you live in now could be modified to meet your current and future physical needs, or it may be best to find a new home that better fits your lifestyle needs.
We’re not always comfortable thinking of our future as we age, but when we plan ahead it can make the process a lot easier. My husband and I were in our mid-40’s when we bought our condo, and it was a must-have for me to have a downstairs bedroom. I wanted this home to serve us for as long as we wanted to stay here. Now the likelihood of us staying here for 30-40 years is not really in the cards, but due to my experience working with clients, it was important to me, ‘just in case’.
Whether you are in the ‘planning ahead’ stage, or are in a position requiring you to quickly make changes, when moving isn’t the best decision for you or an aging family member, here are some DIY low-cost modifications that can be done to make your home more user-friendly:
Whole House Solutions
Easy Outdoor Solutions
Of course, there are some situations that cannot be solved with easy low-cost solutions, such as the lack of a bedroom on the first floor. Much more extensive solutions costing thousands of dollars would be installing a stair lift or renovating the downstairs to allow for a bedroom.
Whatever stage you may be in, consider seeking assistance to develop a plan that allows you to stay independent, in control, and in your home.
Whether you’re planning for your own future or helping a family member, consider what your needs may be five, 10 or 20 years from now. Does your home fit you and your needs today, and is it likely to do so in the future? Is it time to downsize and simplify your life?
If you’d like to set up a complimentary, no-obligation consultation, contact us today.