Your retirement years are supposed to be your golden years. But what happens if your plans go astray? Maybe the economy isn’t what it once was, you don’t have as much in savings as you thought you did, or you’re worried about a serious injury derailing everything. Aging in community can be the perfect solution.
Search Out Affordable Senior Housing
A house is a great investment, but when you hit retirement age, sometimes it proves to be more trouble than it’s worth. Between maintaining it and paying the mortgage and other bills, it can be taxing to keep up. Some seniors elect to downsize to a more manageable arrangement if they are in a large house originally chosen for a family.
This can be a condo, smaller house, or apartment, and if you’re looking to stretch your retirement nest egg as far as it can go, consider affordable housing. Keep in mind that not all affordable housing is government subsidized for low-income retirees. There are also private affordable housing options available, so be sure to do your research to find a good fit for your situation.
Get a Roommate
It may sound silly to get a roommate in your later years, but it can be hugely beneficial. According to Seniorly, house sharing offers many benefits for single retirees, including splitting expenses, enhanced safety, added independence, and companionship. Some seniors barter for reduced living rates by providing services, such as yard work, shopping, or transportation.
This is a particularly great idea for women; around 70 percent of women over 65 end up living alone for various reasons. It’s a chance to age in place and keep your home, or it’s an option for those who are downsizing. Whatever you choose, be sure your environment is senior-friendly, first and foremost.
Adaptations for Aging in Place
Enhancing the home environment can encourage better mobility and independence for seniors. This includes updates like installing anti-slip floors to prevent falling, widening doorways to make them wheelchair accessible, or adding a ramp for easy entry. An ideal arrangement will offer a kitchen, bedroom, laundry, and bathroom on the ground floor.
Bathrooms are a particular source of trouble, with many seniors experiencing debilitating falls in the slippery conditions every year, so give that room special attention. Adding grab bars, installing better lighting, and adding rubber bath mats can greatly improve the space.
When examining your home, check out AARP’s guide on home modifications, which goes room by room and offers suggestions based on your needs.
Hire a Pro
Many accessibility changes are best completed by a professional. Rather than bartering or attempting it yourself, you can often hire a handyman for smaller projects, such as grab bar installation, modifying doorways, and building ramps. If you decide on a larger job, like revamping a bathroom or installing a new laundry area, you should hire a contractor. Be sure to get references on whomever you intend to hire, and read ratings and reviews.
Seek a Village-to-Village Community
Many seniors are embracing a relatively new phenomenon called “village-to-village.” NPR explains this option is a fast-rising, grassroots movement across the United States. Basically, seniors form their own communities, centered around supporting one another, yet encouraging as much independence as they wish.
For just a few hundred dollars in dues, villages provide affordable services and resources to seniors. This includes everything from transportation, health and wellness services, and social activities. As a bonus, it is mostly volunteer-run, which is a great way to keep seniors connected with others living outside their community.
Staying Comfortable
With so many living options in place today, all seniors can find something to fit their circumstances. From adding a roommate, to a community arrangement, options abound. Explore what’s available, and mesh your needs with your desires.
Photo courtesy of Unsplash.