For many seniors, life after retirement can be an exciting time. It’s a golden opportunity to make changes to one’s life that, in turn, make it possible to delve into new pursuits that can be as enriching as they are exciting. Indeed, it’s not unheard of for seniors to travel and take up new hobbies. Downsizing and moving into a smaller home has also become the norm.
Needless to say, if you find yourself considering a new home purchase at this juncture in your life, you are not alone. You may even find that it’s a good idea, too. Working with Blue Owl Properties can be a great starting point as you prepare to buy and sell. But before you take your plan any further, here are some of the most important features that you should keep an eye out for.
Assistance Provided
No doubt, one of the main purposes of buying a new home in your golden years is to make your life easier. For many seniors, this may entail daily living assistance and perhaps even medical care. So, before you search the market to buy a new home, start by assessing your living and care needs and take it from there. There are, in fact, several living options you can consider, and depending on your specific situation, some may be more appropriate than others.
One option that’s definitely worth considering is assisted living. This is an alternative residential option for seniors who have mobility challenges, are unable to keep up with house chores and maintenance, and need assistance in daily living tasks like bathing and eating as such facilities provide 24/7 support, care, and security without sacrificing privacy and independence.
Accessibility
For many retirees, a senior-accessible home is also a worthy investment. This pertains to homes that are fitted with modifications and fixtures that make getting around the home safer and easier, as well as reduce the risk of falls.
Again, it’s important to assess your needs and know which features to look for before purchasing such a home. At the most basic level, bathrooms should be fitted with grab bars and non-slip flooring. Electric plugs and cabinets must also be easily reachable, while hallways, entryways, and even steps should be able to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.
Budget-Friendliness
A significant investment like a new home or living arrangement at this stage in one’s life can be concerning for retired seniors living on a fixed income. But once again, there are plenty of options. Generally, selling one’s current home to downsize and cover future living expenses is a common practice for many retirees, and while this comes with advantages and disadvantages, it can be argued, indeed, that the pros far outweigh the cons. Plus, if you’ve paid off your mortgage or have a significant amount of equity, you are positioned to find a home in your price range that fits your needs.
And of course, there are several government programs that you can also leverage to help you stretch those dollars and get you the most appropriate home where you will be safe and sound. So make it a point to get to know your many options and available resources, not just to ensure your security in your golden years, but also guarantee that your needs will be met.
Suitability
Lastly, don’t forget to consider and make room for your lifestyle. This guarantees that you live a quality life that you can enjoy in your golden years. It’s important, therefore, to also find out how a living option can fit your lifestyle and social needs. More often than not, living arrangements such as assisted living and independent living communities offer opportunities for physical activity and socialization, to name just a few.
Suffice it to say, your twilight years are chock full of brand-new adventures waiting to happen. These start when you make lifestyle and living changes with your comfort and security in mind, so go on and buy that new home to make room for more of your personal growth.
Are you a senior interested in buying a home in the Grand Rapids area? Partner with Jen Holzwarth from Blue Owl Properties! Call (844) 258-3695 or send a message.
Kent Elliot is a retired architect with a passion for dogs, DIY, and universal design. After a stroke left him with mobility issues, he thought he would need to move out of his home and into an assisted living community. But, using his experience as an architect and with a little creativity, he was able to successfully remodel his family home instead. The relief he felt has inspired him to help others do the same so he created AtHomeAging.info to share what he’s learned.
Photo via Unsplash.com
