What is the best type of home for retirement? If that seems like a trick question, it does not need to be. But if, when you think of a ranch house, you envision a large sprawling single story home with a lot of square footage and multiple special purpose rooms, that might not be your idea of the perfect empty nester home.
On the other hand, if you view “ranch style” simply as a single level house that has specific features designed for easy living, it could definitely be the answer to a senior citizen’s dream. According to the Pew Research Center, by 2030, fully 18% of Americans will be age 65 or older. Many of those senior citizens will be looking for or will have already made the move to easy-to-maintain single-story homes.
It’s a trend that is not likely to change anytime soon. Beginning in 2011, the statistics say, 10,000 Baby Boomers each day will turn 65. So the needs, particularly the changing housing needs of aging Americans, are vitally important.
Just what makes sense for senior housing?
Baby Boomers look at retirement as a new opportunity, and huge numbers of adults with grown children consider downsizing or making a move to planned communities prior to actual retirement. The popularity of golf course communities and developments that cater to the needs and activities of active seniors has reached a new high, particularly in areas with sunny, warm climates. Some adults invest in “vacation” properties prior to retirement, with plans to make the transition to full-time resort living once they reach retirement age.
Although those aging Baby Boomers may choose to relocate to warmer climates, downsize their housing for a wide variety of reasons, or adopt a new lifestyle out of choice, they also expect to continue their involvement with cultural and volunteer activities they enjoy. They may look forward to a less demanding lifestyle, but they have no intention of “sitting around.”
Psychologists and senior health advisors advise that it’s wise to begin making plans for a change in lifestyle well in advance of actual retirement. Think not only about the financial realities of retirement, but plan for the living changes as well. In addition, most healthy seniors today view retirement differently from previous generations, and a large percentage of the over-50 population expects to continue working well into the next decade or even longer. Some retirees even start new entrepreneurial ventures or begin new work-at-home careers.
While some make retirement choices based on the proximity of family and friends, an increasing number of Americans considering retirement put their own interests and desires first. What most active seniors want, however, is a housing solution that will allow them to travel at will without worrying about their home and possessions.  A lifestyle that is adaptable to changing health and mobility requirements is also a concern for aging adults, and communities located close to healthcare facilities, or developments that offer a variety of housing options from cottages to apartments are not uncommon.
What Are Some Options?
When choosing a style of new home, then, senior citizens must be pragmatic about their needs. If you prefer a single story home in a traditional neighborhood, you have a lot of options. A duplex or townhouse in an urban setting with nearby shopping, services and restaurants might be more your “cup of tea.” A condominium in a larger building with planned activities and a continuum of care options is a choice popular with other aging couples and singles.
Single-story homes with simple open floor plans and a generous serving of amenities are a good choice for many seniors. Most seniors would like a spacious master suite and at least one other bedroom, perhaps two. They may need less square footage, but they still want space to pursue separate interests, and often are happy to have a home office or den, in addition to a living room or family gathering space. They are almost universally willing to give up a second story; and are equally happy to have no yard work other than perhaps a small flower garden. Ease of upkeep is a must. A homeowners association for yard work and exterior maintenance services is a bonus.
Plan for the Unexpected
Aging in place is the new term for housing that allows active adults to remain in their own home well into old age. It is a relatively new concept, and it takes into account the changing health and mobility requirements of an older population. As the growing population of Baby Boomers chooses to downsize or move to planned communities, aging-in-place guidelines are increasingly important. They can be as simple as level or ramped approaches to the front door, and the installation of grab bars in a bathroom to as well-planned as wheelchair-accessible vanities and cooking facilities.
If you are approaching retirement, consider your future when thinking about buying a new home or remodeling your current house. No matter what your current needs may be, it is prudent to consider future needs before making a move. Then, whether you choose a ranch style home in a familiar neighborhood, a garden apartment in a retirement complex, or a condo in a controlled access building with a doorman, you will be able to look forward to a lifestyle that meets your needs and your expectations, and to enjoy your retirement years knowing that the choice you made is right for you.
2 Point Highlight
Single-story homes with simple open floor plans and a generous serving of amenities are a good choice for many seniors.
Aging in place is a relatively new concept, and it takes into account the changing health and mobility requirements of an older population.
