When Downsizing Home at Age 50+
Not all elderly people can stay in their present homes because of many reasons such as debilitating diseases, poor health or lack of mobility. But for those who can still live on their own, downsizing is an option to help them move around freely and safely without the responsibility of keeping a bigger house cleaned and well-maintained. If your parent or a loved one is going to change into a new home, there are several considerations you must keep in mind before making that move.
Discuss the Transfer
Statistics show that there are 12 million older adults in the US who are living on their own according to Pew Research. While your parent or loved one will surely resist the idea of going into a new home, discussing and presenting the options can help them understand why leaving the place they called home for decades needs to be done. State the pros and cons of downsizing and why it is for their best interest and safety. Give them enough time to get used to the planned transfer. You should not spring the idea today and move next week.
Plan the Transition
Involving your senior in looking for a new place is also helpful. They will feel comfortable if their future home is to their liking. Studies show that today, senior citizens are more digitally connected, so chances are high that your mature adult knows how to use a computer or mobile device and scout for interesting places to live. If you are going to decide on real estate, you can narrow down choices together with your parent and then make appointments to see some of them. Before that, make a short list of things you are looking for such as the neighborhood, accessibility to public transport, amenities, medical & community centers around and even proximity to your home to make regular visits easy.
Senior Proof the New Abode
Before moving in, you might want to inspect the house to ensure that it is safe for your loved one to live in. Retrofitting is a strong possibility as there are not many available houses that are senior-friendly. Install grab bars, chairs and non-skid mats in bathroom and showers, add ramps for wheelchair or walker use, if applicable and elevate toilet seats. In the bedroom, invest in senior mattresses that are not only comfortable but also high enough making it easy for the elderly to get in and out. Rails are handy to keep them from falling out accidentally.
By preparing early and adequately, the process of uprooting Mom or Dad from their beloved home will not be as traumatic as anticipated. In time, they will start enjoying their new home and start building memories in the last stage of their lives.