Aging in Place in Connecticut: Is Your Home Ready?

For many Connecticut homeowners, getting older doesn’t necessarily mean wanting to move. You may love your home, your neighborhood, your community and the memories you’ve made there.

But there’s an important question worth asking:

Will your home continue to work for you as your needs change?

As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®), I often talk with homeowners and their families about this. Sometimes downsizing makes sense. Other times, a few thoughtful changes can make a current home safer and more comfortable for years to come.

The key is planning before you have to.

Start With the Overall Home

Walk through your home and look at it from a different perspective. Would it still be easy to navigate if your mobility changed?

Consider:

• Are walkways clear of clutter and cords?
• Do rugs have non-slip backing?
• Is there bright lighting throughout the home?
• Do staircases have handrails?
• Are door thresholds level?
• Are doorways wide enough for changing mobility needs?
• Is there enough room to maneuver a walker or wheelchair?

Some improvements can be relatively simple. Others may require more planning.

Pay Special Attention to the Bathroom

Bathrooms are one of the most important areas to evaluate when thinking about aging in place.

Consider whether there are grab bars near the toilet, bathtub and shower. Look at non-slip surfaces, good lighting and whether there's room for a shower chair or bench.

A handheld showerhead can make bathing easier, while a no-curb shower or walk-in tub may be something to consider for the future.

Could You Live on One Floor?

This is one of the biggest questions I encourage homeowners to think about.

If stairs became difficult, could you comfortably live on the main level of your home?

Having access to a bedroom and full bathroom on the first floor can make a significant difference in whether a home will work long term.

Also look at the bedroom itself. Is there adequate space around the bed? Is the lighting good? Could someone using a walker comfortably navigate the room?

Don't Forget the Kitchen

Small changes in the kitchen can make everyday living easier.

Think about accessible stove controls, good task lighting and cabinets that don't require excessive reaching or bending. Roll-out trays and Lazy Susans can make items easier to access.

Safety features are important too, including an easily accessible fire extinguisher and a stove that can alert you if a burner has been left on.

Look Beyond the Inside of the House

Aging in place isn't just about grab bars and wider doorways.

How much maintenance does your property require? Will you want to continue taking care of the yard, driveway or snow removal? Are you close to healthcare, shopping, family and the activities you enjoy?

A home can often be modified. Its location, lot size and overall layout are much harder to change.

Should You Age in Place or Downsize?

There isn't one answer that's right for everyone.

For some homeowners, making a few strategic improvements allows them to stay comfortably in the home they love.

For others, moving to a ranch, condo, 55+ community or smaller home may provide an easier lifestyle.

And having the conversation doesn't mean you're ready to move tomorrow.

In fact, planning earlier gives you more choices and more control over what comes next.

Aging in Place & Downsizing in Middlesex County, CT

As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®), I work with homeowners and families throughout Middlesex County, Central Connecticut and surrounding towns who are beginning to think about their next chapter.

Sometimes that means selling. Sometimes it means staying exactly where you are.

My role is to help you understand your options so you can make the decision that's right for you and your family — without pressure.

Wondering whether your current home will work for you long term? Let's talk.

Debbie Huscher, Realtor® | SRES®
The Huscher Team at REAL
860-918-4580
ctwelcomehome.com