The Boomers are aging and Gen X is moving out, hopefully. Mom and Dad don’t want all that space (and yard work). Our idea of a yard is the beach on a small deserted island or a beautifully groomed golf course. Today seniors and “mid-lifers” are healthier, more active, and better off financially than at any other time in history. And, we are living longer. Consequently, we will need a suitable and accessible place to live, whether we remain in our own homes, move into a smaller space, or opt for assisted living.

The majority of homeowners are likely to remain in their current home into their retirement years. Most people don’t view their homes as posing any particular impediment to living there as they age. However, making the home easier to get around in and to maintain are high priorities. The mature market wants modifications to their homes that increase efficiency, convenience and comfort.

Things to think about for the future

Think about your physical needs as you age and what you will be able to do. What is it about your home that concerns you the most when you think about living there as you get older? Is there something about your home that you think could make it more difficult or uncomfortable for you to live in as you age and your physical needs change?

The first thing that comes to mind is the stairs. If the master bedroom is located upstairs, you might want to think about remodeling or reassigning a room downstairs that would better accommodate you. If the stairs become a problem, it’s easily solved by installing a stair lift. This apparatus is simply installed using the existing stairwell on the side of the wall. It leaves plenty of room for regular access up the stairs when it’s not in use. It’s electrified and has many safety features. Besides, it’s sort of a fun ride!

Whether for you or your aging parents

Falling is one of the biggest worries for the aging population. Just adding a few grab bars in the bathrooms located near toilets, baths, and in showers, alleviates some of those worries. Another problem is the floor coverings. Heavy pile carpets, soft padding, and lots of small area rugs are potential hazards to those who use walkers or wheelchairs. It’s best to use short pile rugs with commercial grade pads, hardwood, tile, cork, or linoleum, and keep the area rugs to a minimum, making sure that they don’t slip or bunch. Do not, I repeat, DO NOT use polished marble floors in your bathroom! I don’t care what age you are…they may look great, but they are slick and dangerous when wet! There are many beautiful alternatives out there that have some texture incorporated in them to prevent that “ice rink” effect.

Lighting the way

I know that we don’t like to admit it, but our eyesight tends to diminish with age. The quality and quantity of lighting is especially important, as improper or inadequate lighting is also commonly linked with falls in the home. Simply increasing the wattage of the bulbs around the house will help immeasurably. Think about installing automatic sensors that turn lights on in baths, stairwells, closets, etc. Remote controls on lighting and ceiling fans are a great idea. (Now, if I could just remember where I left them.)

Movin’ on

You might be thinking, “Now that the kids are gone, this house is just too big!”, or “This house just doesn’t fit my lifestyle anymore.” The answer might just be to downsize by buying a smaller home, zero lot line, or condo. There are many “plus sides” to this decision, such as lower maintenance, usually a more open floor plan, and an exciting fresh start! However, it can also be a little depressing and traumatic. The hardest thing that you will be faced with is trying to decide what you REALLY need to move and take with you. This means letting go of some items that might have memories attached.  It may even mean leaving some friends behind. However, once you work your way through that, you will feel liberated! (Face it; you really never liked that dresser that belonged to Great Aunt Bessie, anyway.)

Whether you plan to stay where you are, or move to a smaller space, comfort, convenience, and efficiency are key. Just remember, many of the next generation expects to either have an elderly family member move in with them in the future or at the very least, be responsible for their care on some level. I don’t know about you, but the older I get, the nicer I’m going to be to my children!