The average American can expect to change residences roughly 12 to 15 times, with the final two moves precipitated by advancing age.

It is during this latter stretch that many of us downsize to a retirement community with the hope we won’t ultimately end up in an assisted living or nursing facility afterward.

But while  nearly 90% of the nation’s Baby Boomers hope to age in place, only a tiny minority of them are doing much if anything to make that desire a reality. The reason? The topic of aging in youth-obsessed America is deemed unpleasant, as is the realities it conveys.

The good news is that aging doesn’t have to be unpleasant and with some proper planning you can, in fact, remain in the home you love.

But you need to take action NOW. Here’s how.

5 Steps for Aging in Place

1. Reality Check – Most homes are built for our younger years when we’re healthier and more stable. Step 1, then, is to look at your home through the eyes of a much older version of yourself. Better still, bring in an elderly relative or friend or an aging in place expert (we offer free consultations) to point out problem areas.
2. Do Your Research – Visit some active living and 55+ communities for ideas. These facilities are designed with older folks in mind. We should note, however, that having done our share of work in these homes, the builders still dropped the ball in many ways (during two recent visits to active living communities we were shocked to find 10-foot ceilings and 8-foot shelves!).
3. Plan for Problems – Age brings problems, including arthritis, surgeries, and the occasional tumble. Can you get a walker or wheelchair through a doorway? Is a walk-in / roll-in shower a possibility? Will grab bars, a second handrail in hallways and stairways, and ramps be possible at a later date? Some homes are far easier to modify than others, so conduct an honest appraisal of your desired forever-home.
4. Community – Far too many Americans no longer really know their neighbors. That’s OK when you’re young but a big problem in later years when you may need support or even emergency help from the individuals next door. Consider your community and proximity to the neighbors.
5. Medical Support – Is a first-responders and a medical facility reasonably close by? Your life may depend on it.

Plan Now, Not Later

If you’re thinking about aging in place, you’re not alone. A growing number of people have no plans to end up in assisted living or nursing facilities.

We recommend taking the steps listed above and using a company like ours (or one like it) t0 assess your property. Many, like Nova Custom Renovations, will conduct these assessments at no charge.

If you plan now and phase in the support you’ll need (e.g., grab bars, improved lighting, and smart tech today, followed by wider doorways and roll-in shower tomorrow) you can make the transition far more painless (physically and financially).