Author:Β Mary Shannon
Reviewed by:Β Maria Alfano-Huggins
When choosing a new home for your retirement, prioritize features that align with both your immediate needs and future requirements. Seek properties that blend comfort with convenience, ensuring they accommodate your lifestyle today while being adaptable for tomorrow. Focusing on homes that are well-suited for aging in place offer you a blend of current satisfaction and long-term usability.Β
Aching knees, swollen ankles, a bad ticker, all are reasons for some of the aging population to chose a different place to live in their golden years.Β Having a home that meets the needs of a body that has many stories to tell is the perfect way to extend independence for mature adults.
Best Home Choices for Aging Gracefully – What Key Features to Look For
What type of home will suit you best depends on you, your preferences, your health, and your willingness to move.Β If staying where you are is no longer the feasible option, then we have some ideas for you.
Single-Story Living
A single-story home is one of the most critical features for aging in place. With all living areas on one level, there’s no need to navigate stairs, which can become a significant hazard as mobility decreases. Homes without stairs offer easier access and a safer environment, reducing the risk of falls and making it simpler to move around with assistive devices if needed. Ideally, a home without stairs on the outside would be the smartest option. Opt for a layout that includes wide hallways and ample space to maneuver comfortably.
Doorway Dimensions for Easy Access
Select homes with doorways that are generously wide to accommodate mobility aids like walkers and wheelchairs effortlessly. Rather than settling for the standard 32-inch width, aim for homes with doorways that measure at least 36 inches across, ensuring easy passage and added comfort. Wide doorways are not just a practical feature; they enhance the livability of your space, making it a true haven for years to come.Β Take it from me…a month in a wheelchair after a broken leg made me wish I had wider doorways to maneuver around more easily.
Ensure Ample Lighting
Ensure your home is well-lit to safeguard against falls and simplify everyday tasks. Choose properties that boast large windows which bathe rooms in natural light, enhancing visibility throughout the day. Additionally, ensure there are superior artificial lighting options available, particularly task lighting in essential areas such as the kitchen and bathroom, to maintain clarity and comfort at all times.
Smart Home Accessibility
Incorporate smart home technology to elevate the safety and accessibility of your living space. Voice-activated devices enable you to manage lighting, secure doors, and adjust thermostats without the need to physically move, while automated systems enhance security by notifying you of visitors, potential water leaks, or appliances that remain active. To ensure your investment in these innovative technologies remains protected, understanding electronics coverage through your home warranty plan is crucial; it helps handle expenses associated with repairs or replacements of your smart home devices.
Bathroom Design and Safety
Accessible bathrooms are non-negotiable for aging in place. Look for bathrooms equipped with extra grab bars strategically placed in the shower, near the toilet, and along the walls. These provide support and stability, helping prevent slips and falls. Have you ever been to a hotel with a tub so high that you wondered how on earth you would get in and out of it without hurting yourself?? Consider bathrooms with walk-in showers and seats, which are easier to enter and exit than traditional bathtubs. Non-slip tiles and adequate space for maneuvering a wheelchair or walker are also important features to consider.
Exterior Accessibility
Ensure your home’s entrance is accessible by opting for wheelchair ramps that complement or replace traditional steps. These ramps should feature a gentle incline to facilitate easy access. They should be constructed from materials that prevent slipping, enhancing safety under any weather conditions. By prioritizing accessibility at your doorstep, you make your home welcoming and navigable for everyone, regardless of mobility.
Low Maintenance Living
As you grow older, the best home choices for aging in place exclude extensive maintenance needs can prove overwhelming and expensive. Choose homes equipped with modern roofs and efficient HVAC systems to cut down on unexpected repairs and energy costs. Seek out landscapes that are simple to manage, such as those with perennial plants and drip irrigation systems to reduce gardening labor. Opting for materials like composite decking will also diminish the need for frequent upkeep, ensuring your home remains both beautiful and practical with minimal effort.
Final Thoughts On Best Home Choices for Aging
In selecting a home for the later years, itβs essential to prioritize features that enhance accessibility, safety, and convenience. The right home will support a comfortable lifestyle. It provides peace of mind, enabling residents to focus on enjoying their golden years with confidence and independence. Careful consideration of these factors ensures that the chosen residence will continue to meet evolving needs, providing a stable and supportive environment for the future.
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