Seniors that want to age in place may decide to downsize from their current home. It makes sense for seniors that no longer need a large family home to find a smaller home that will suit their needs better as they get older. And, seniors who are living in older homes may want to downsize to a townhouse or condo that won’t require as much maintenance.
But there are some things that seniors need to take into consideration when they are thinking about downsizing. One of the things they should consider is whether or not the home is set up for home care. Other things that seniors should consider when they are thinking about downsizing are:
Current Needs
Begin by evaluating your current lifestyle and needs. Consider factors like mobility, health, and daily routines. Are there unused rooms or spaces in your current home? Are there areas that are difficult to access? Identifying these issues will help you determine what you truly require in your next living space. A home care provider can help seniors assess their current needs and whether or not their current home can meet those needs.
Location, Location, Location
Where seniors live matters quite a bit. Consider proximity to family, friends, healthcare facilities, and amenities like grocery stores and public transportation. Choosing a location that meets your social and medical needs is crucial for maintaining a high quality of life. Seniors who live in an accessible neighborhood may want to stay in that neighborhood.
Size and Layout
Determine the right size and layout for your new home. While downsizing generally means moving to a smaller space, it doesn’t have to feel cramped. Look for layouts that maximize the use of space, such as open floor plans or multifunctional rooms.
Let Go Of The Past
Downsizing provides an opportunity to declutter and simplify your life. Go through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. Consider sentimental value, practicality, and functionality when making these decisions.
Prioritize Accessibility
As you age, accessibility becomes increasingly important. Look for homes with features like step-free entrances, wider doorways, and grab bars in the bathroom. These modifications can make daily living easier and safer.
The Emotional Cost Of Leaving
Moving from a home filled with memories can be emotionally challenging. Take time to acknowledge these feelings and consider seeking support from friends, family, or a counselor to help with the transition.
Focus On Rightsizing, Not Just Downsizing
Think about “rightsizing” rather than simply downsizing. This means finding a home that suits your current needs and lifestyle. It might not always mean going smaller; it could mean finding a more suitable space for your current stage of life.
What’s The Storage Situation?
Seniors often have valuable possessions, family heirlooms, or seasonal items they don’t want to part with. Look for homes with ample storage space or consider off-site storage solutions if necessary. Seniors can also see if their children or friends want to take some of their heirloom furniture, artwork, or other items that they don’t want to move. Part of downsizing is letting go of things from the past.
Plan Ahead For Changing Health Needs
Plan for the future. Your new home should accommodate potential changes in your health and mobility. Think about whether it’s possible to age in place in your chosen location or if you’ll need to consider assisted living options down the road. Home care can play a vital role in helping seniors age in place.
Social and Community Considerations
Loneliness can be a significant concern for seniors. Look for communities or neighborhoods that offer opportunities for social engagement and activities that align with your interests.
Healthcare Access
Access to healthcare services is crucial. Consider the proximity of hospitals, clinics, and doctors’ offices when choosing your new location.
Transportation
Assess your transportation needs. If you no longer drive, ensure that public transportation or ride-sharing services are readily available.
If you or an aging loved one are considering home care in La Jolla, CA please contact the caring staff at A Passion for Care today. Call (858) 798-5005
A Passion for Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving San Diego, La Jolla, Del Mar, Rancho Bernardo, Encinitas, Oceanside, Rancho Santa Fe, Point Loma, and surrounding areas.
Making the transition to a completely new industry brought the opportunity to learn and grow, which continues still today. Pat studied Gerontology in San Diego State University’s certificate program and became licensed as a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA), a Home Health Aide (HHA), and completed the California Certification Program for Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCCFE) as a Certified Administrator. She presented workshops at Aging in America Conference four years in a row and served as Chair of the San Diego Regional Home Care Council 2019-2020 and was the education board member for several years. More recently, Pat became a Certified Senior Advisor and was a San Diego Business Journal “50 over 50 2022 Women of Influence Honoree”.
Pat and her husband Roland have lived outside San Diego in the San Pasqual Valley for over three decades. She has two children who are grown professionals and three grandchildren. Pat enjoys traveling to, and visits from, family and friends throughout the year. While at home in San Pasqual Valley, she and Roland enjoy peaceful views and exploring the surrounding valleys.
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