Aging.  No one likes to think about it, but it is happening with every day that goes by!  Planning to stay in your home as you age is a better alternative than assisted living if it can be helped, and best done before there is no choice. How to prepare? Here are some tips to get you at least thinking about getting ready: 
 

  • Finances are the most important issue here. Wanting to stay in your home during the later years of life will take some savings since most will be on a limited income. Having a retirement account as well as an emergency fund that cannot be touched until you are retired is best.  Having to pay for home repairs is not something an elderly person should have to worry about. 
     

  • Make sure you have a network of friends and family that you communicate with regularly.  Keeping in touch is vital for the elderly, and especially important if living alone. Start creating that network now, especially with your neighbors. 
     

  • In your 40’s and 50’s, pay attention to your health!  Take care of yourself, and if you have a chronic health problem, have a plan in place in case you are unable to communicate with others. Create a list of doctors, medications, insurance info as well as any conditions you have, and keep it current. 
     

  • Deciding to modify your current home or downsize when the time is right may be difficult. If you know you have health issues, then selling and getting a smaller home may be the right thing, and could provide you with added savings, as well. 
     

  • In case you choose not to sell your current home, take a good look at your home, and decide what changes need to be made.  Common changes for older folks at home: one-level living, more lighting, non-skid flooring, doorway width, kitchen counter heights, curbless walk-in shower, or walk-in tub, and not to mention handlebars to grasp in different areas. 
     

  • The outdoors is sometimes forgotten when it comes to making changes for the aging-in-place plan.  Consider covered walkways, porches, or decks, one entryway without steps, and raised gardening beds.  
     

  • A discussion with immediate family is probably the most important part of the plan. Let them know your wishes and all that you are doing to get the plan in place.  

 

Be realistic about your decisions; everyone ages, and though it is not the most entertaining of future considerations, the time may come that you regret not getting a plan into place. Do not leave out the possibility of not being able to stay at home, and needing long-term care insurance, and having any legal matters taken care of with an attorney.  Taking care of your future self is as important as taking care of yourself now! 

 

Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtors Tucker Robbins and Carol Arnott Robbins.  

Photo credit: a place for mom