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Downsizing: Features Seniors Should Consider
Aging brings many changes in lifestyle and personal needs that can have a significant impact on finances. While some seniors choose to remain in their homes and age in place, others choose to downsize and move to smaller homes. If you're considering a move, our REALTORS® have some tips to make downsizing to a new home a smoother transition.
If you're considering moving to Mansfield and Ashland homes for sale, finding a home with the right amenities is essential for your senior years. Take a look at five home features that are important to your safety, health, lifestyle, and finances in your senior years.
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Accessibility
For some seniors, aging may involve mobility issues caused by a sedentary lifestyle, a fall, or an illness. Downsizing to a one-story home without stairs or a condo with an accessible elevator will ensure a safer home environment. While older homes are less likely to be designed with mobility issues in mind, newer homes often feature wider doorways and hallways, fewer steps, hand railings, and safety features in bathrooms. Many senior complexes provide homeowners access to elevators, wheelchair ramps, outdoor railings, and onsite transportation services. -
Low Maintenance
The upkeep and maintenance of a home often become a burden for seniors, especially those living on a fixed income. Gardening services, home repairs, and necessary home upgrades may not be in the budget after all monthly bills are paid. Downsizing to a smaller home or a condo can reduce living expenses. Most condos have HOA fees that cover the costs of landscaping, roofing repairs, outdoor painting, and some utility expenses like water, gas, and trash that make senior living more affordable. -
Proximity to Medical Care
When downsizing to a new location, it's important to consider the proximity to nearby medical services, including hospitals, urgent care facilities, dental care, and local pharmacies. Proximity to these services will make medical emergencies less stressful and getting to medical appointments more convenient. Seniors on medicare plans may want to consider relocating to an area that allows them to keep their current healthcare provider and doctors and dentists. A move that requires changes in familiar routines often creates inconvenience and added stress. -
Proximity to Stores, Entertainment, and Services
For many active seniors, a lifestyle during retirement years means the ability to enjoy traveling, shopping, and leisure activities. When moving or downsizing to a new location, the proximity to stores, enjoyable activities, and essential services become a big priority:- Grocery stores and drug stores
- Shopping malls
- Restaurants, cafes, and coffee shops
- Movie theaters and concert halls
- Art galleries
- Public libraries
- Hair salons and barbershops
- Public parks and local dog parks
Choosing a new home close to stores and activities will cut down on driving time, provide easier access to public transportation, and create more opportunities for fun gatherings with friends and family members.
- Comfortable Home Environment
Any move can be stressful, but downsizing is often more stressful for seniors who have lived in their homes for decades. Moving to a smaller home often involves getting rid of furniture and appliances, household items, artwork and accessories, clothing, family china and photos, and special mementos that have been in the family for years. To create a comfortable home environment when downsizing, look for a home that provides comfortable living spaces with good lighting, adequate storage for necessities, and home security and safety features.
If you're thinking about moving or downsizing to a smaller home, contact us at Haring Realty. We can help you find the Ohio home that's a perfect fit for your lifestyle and financial needs.