How can I help you Age in Place from a real estate perspective? Even if you don’t plan to move, you still need to prepare your home to accommodate your future needs and also get it ready for when you will eventually leave your home.
Initially, you need to make the assessment whether your current home is suitable for aging in place. Can you install an elevator or stair lift to the second level or move the master bedroom to the main level? Do you have a full bathroom on the main level?
Once you have decided to stay, you will need to make modifications before you need them to reduce the chances of an accident. Your house will need to be adapted to accommodate for reduced vision, less mobility and joint problems. Examples are replacing door knobs with levers, removing rugs to reduce the risk of tripping, installing handrails on stairs with a rounded return at each end. Modifying showers and tubs to get in and out easier will also be required.
A good source for ideas of how to modify your home is a contractor that is a Certified Aging in Place Specialist.
When you are still young, declutter your home:
- Donate to charities
- Have an estate sale
- Organize your photos
- Hire an organizer
As a realtor, I meet contractors and other service professionals that can help you. I am a member of a business groups of people that sincerely want to help you with aging in place and downsizing.
Percent of people aged 65 or older whose goal is to Age-in-Place
Source: AARP, 2015