Our family homes are more than just buildings—they’re the backdrop to our lives, filled with memories and comfort. But as we grow older, these familiar spaces can become tricky to manage.
Many ageing homeowners find themselves pondering a big question:
“Should I stay, or should I go?”
This guide is here to help you think through this important decision. We’ll look at signs that might suggest it’s time for a change and ways to make your current home more suitable for your changing needs.
This decision affects not just you but often your loved ones, too. Understanding your options allows you to make choices that keep you safe, independent and happy in your later years.
Let’s take a closer look at what you need to consider.
I. Recognising the Signs: When to Consider a Change
As we age, our needs and abilities change. Sometimes, these changes happen so gradually that we might not immediately notice them.
Here are some signs that it might be time to think about adjusting your living situation:
Physical Limitations and Home Safety
Are you finding it harder to climb stairs or step into the bathtub? Maybe you’ve had a few close calls with tripping or falling. These are clear signs that your home might need some updates to keep you safe.
Changes in Family Dynamics
Perhaps your children have moved far away, or you’ve lost a spouse. These big life changes can make a familiar home feel too empty or overwhelming to manage independently.
Maintenance Challenges
Is keeping up with home repairs and yard work becoming a constant struggle? When routine tasks like changing light bulbs or cleaning gutters become risky or impossible, it’s time to consider your options.
Financial Considerations
Take a look at your budget. Are home-related expenses eating up too much of your retirement income? Sometimes, a change in living situation can free up funds for other important aspects of your life.
Early Warning Signs of Cognitive Decline
Have you noticed yourself or a loved one having trouble remembering to pay bills, getting lost in familiar places, or struggling with everyday tasks? These are early signs of cognitive decline that require a more supportive living environment.
During a visit with a client, I noticed he was shaking slightly, which I recognised as a potential sign of Parkinson’s disease. This subtle symptom underscored the importance of recognising early warning signs of health decline and considering whether the current living environment can handle these changes.
In such cases, an ACAT (Aged Care Assessment Team) assessment can help determine what type of care or support you might need.
The key is to start thinking about these issues before they become urgent. By planning ahead, you give yourself time to make thoughtful decisions rather than rushed ones.
II. Staying Put: Making Your Home Age-Friendly
For many of us, there’s no place like home. If you decide to stay put, making your home safer and more comfortable is key.
The good news?
These changes can not only help you age in place but also boost your property’s value. Let’s look at some smart updates:
Bathroom Makeovers: The bathroom is often the first place that needs attention:
- Swap that old bathtub for a walk-in shower
- Add grab rails near the toilet and in the shower
- Install non-slip flooring to prevent nasty falls
Opening Up Space: As we age, we might need more room to move around:
- Widen doorways and hallways to accommodate walkers or wheelchairs
- Consider a stair lift or ramp if you have steps
I worked with a client in her early 50s who had a slight limp due to a sore hip. While she was still quite young, this mobility issue was an early sign that her home might need modifications to prevent future difficulties.
It’s important to remember that mobility concerns can arise at any age, making proactive planning essential.
Kitchen Tweaks: Cooking should be a joy, not a chore:
- Lower some countertops for easier food prep
- Install pull-out shelves and drawer organisers
- Replace knobs with easy-grip handles on cabinets and appliances
Lighting Matters: Good lighting isn’t just about ambience; it’s about safety:
- Ensure adequate lighting throughout the house, especially on stairs and in entryways
These updates don’t have to make your home look like a hospital. With some creative thinking, you can make changes that are both practical and stylish.
And here’s a bonus:
A home that’s ready for ageing in place can be very attractive to buyers if you ever decide to sell. It’s about creating a space that works for you now and adds value for the future.
I’ve seen this work wonders firsthand.
Recently, I helped a client who was planning to sell their home. What started as a few pre-sale touch-ups turned into a complete transformation. The renovations solved existing problems and reimagined the space for the future.
The result?
My clients fell in love with their “new” home and decided to stay.
Curious about how the right renovations can change everything? Click here to read the full case study.
This experience shows how thoughtful changes can turn a house you’re ready to leave into a home you can’t wait to enjoy for years to come.
III. Financial and Emotional Considerations
When deciding whether to stay in your home or move as you age, it’s not just about practicality. This choice carries significant financial and emotional weight.
Financial Implications
Renovating your home for ageing in place can be a substantial investment, but it’s one that often pays off:
- It can help prevent costly injuries by making your home safer
- These improvements can increase your property’s value if you decide to sell later
On the flip side, moving to a new home or a retirement community has its own set of costs:
- There are expenses tied to selling your current home and buying or renting a new one
- Don’t forget about moving costs
Emotional Considerations
Let’s be honest—the idea of leaving a long-term home can be tough.
But it’s important to balance these emotional ties with the realities of ageing. Staying in a home that’s no longer suitable can lead to stress and safety risks. On the other hand, moving to a more appropriate living space can bring peace of mind.
Finding the Right Balance
In my experience, the best decisions come from balancing both financial and emotional factors. Have open discussions with your family, seek professional advice, and carefully weigh all your options.
There isn’t a single correct solution. Making a decision that is in line with your needs, values, and situation is what matters most.
Conclusion
As we’ve explored throughout this guide, the question “Should I stay or should I go?” doesn’t have a simple answer. It’s a deeply personal decision that depends on your unique circumstances, needs and preferences.
Staying in your home can be a wonderful option if you can make the necessary modifications to ensure your safety and comfort. On the other hand, moving to a new home or community might offer benefits that your current home can’t provide.
Whichever path you choose, be proactive.
Don’t wait for a crisis to force your hand. Start thinking about your options early, involve your family in the conversation and seek advice from professionals who can guide you through the process.
Take your time, weigh your options carefully and make the decision that feels right for you.
After all, this isn’t just about a house—it’s about creating the best possible environment for you to thrive in your golden years.
If you’re considering your options and need expert guidance, I’m here to help. As a buyer’s agent with extensive experience in assisting ageing homeowners, I can help you find the perfect home or make your current one suitable for ageing in place.
Contact me today to discuss your needs and take the first step towards making an informed, confident decision about your future.
