More often than not, downsizing is a viable course of action for older adults looking to improve their quality of life in their golden years. This is because downsizing, in a nutshell, essentially reduces expenses and responsibilities on the home front, which is a change that many retirees and empty nesters welcome wholeheartedly.
Of course, this generally entails selling long-time homes to move to smaller, more manageable, and more accessible ones. Much of the success of one’s downsizing efforts depends on finding the perfect lifelong home where you can thrive in comfort and safety for the rest of your life. Here are some of the most important features you should look for as you begin your search.
Safety First
There’s no question that your safety is of the utmost importance, especially at this juncture in your life when you are not as physically fit and able as you used to be. For this reason, it’s important to choose a home fitted with accessibility features or, at least, can be fitted with them as needed.
Accessibility features vary, of course, depending on your specific mobility limitations and needs. However, as a rule, these features should be geared toward allowing you to go about your day-to-day minutiae at home comfortably and safely with little to no risk of falls. At the very least, a senior-friendly home should have a bathroom fitted with grab bars and non-slip flooring, perhaps even a fold-down bench in the shower so that you can bathe with ease and privacy. Similarly, you will also benefit from open kitchen shelves and appliances with user-friendly and easy-to-read controls and displays.
Space Aplenty
Space is also a very important requirement in an accessible home. It’s very important, therefore, to consider the house’s layout. Among the best elements of great senior-accessible design are open-flow floor plans and wider hallways and doorways, which offer plenty of maneuverability for wheelchairs or walkers. Single-story house plans are also very feasible as they eliminate the myriad dangers of steps.
Smart Tech
These days, seniors also benefit greatly from technology. Smart home technology has grown in leaps and bounds in recent years, and there are now so many intelligent devices that can make seniors’ lives easier. These run the gamut from smart doorbells and locks to automated devices that turn appliances off and dispense medication. It’s a good idea to explore your home automation options and see how they can enhance the quality of your life.
Senior Housing
Lastly, you can opt for senior housing arrangements offering more care and assistance. This is especially important if you or your loved one require more regular and comprehensive care, as your comfort and safety are top priorities.
No doubt, assisted living is among the most inviting senior housing options available today. This is because most assisted living facilities provide their residents with adequate assistance in daily living without sacrificing privacy and independence. This, in turn, makes it a truly viable choice for most seniors. Start by researching assisted living facilities in your area online to find one that fits your needs and budget.
With the annual cost of assisted living averaging $48,000 per year, seniors and their loved ones will need to figure out a way to pay for the expense. Many seniors choose to sell their homes to help pay for assisted living, and with homes selling for $463,000 on average in Palm Springs, this can be a good option. If you want to sell your home, a skilled Realtor® like Geoffrey Moore can walk you through the home-selling process.
Indeed, it can be argued that downsizing may be one of the best decisions you will ever make as you enter your golden years. You want to do it right and not leave anything up to chance. As you bid “adieu” to the old, know that the perfect accessible home where you can live a good-quality life is on the horizon. So, don’t compromise on the features you need and want — your safety and comfort depend on it.
Are you interested in learning more about the Palm Springs real estate market? Contact Geoffrey Moore online or by phone at (760) 641-5689 for more expert local information!
Photo via Pexels
Posted by Geoffrey Moore on
Leave A Comment