The new catchphrase for seniors is "Aging in Place". It is a simple concept that requires some thoughtful planning.
As we age, none of us want to be placed in a nursing home. That is a given. We have visions of neglected elderly people who wander the halls with their canes, walkers, or in a wheelchair. Our vision is that they are lonely and just waiting to die. While some nursing homes are like that, many in Columbia are not. And, indeed, that isn't the only option for seniors.
There are senior living communities, Assisted Living communities, patio homes, as well as skilled nursing facilities. My favorite option is Aging in Place. When a senior individual or couple chooses to Age in Place, it means they either continue to live in their current home and adapt it to their needs, or they sell their current home and purchase a 1-level home in which they can age in Place.
In Columbia, there are single-story homes in neighborhoods that can work for someone intending to age in place. If the client doesn't want to do yard work, there are full-size homes as well as small homes which have lawn maintenance built into the regular fee. There are condominiums that have full-time, 24-hour security. There are patio homes which have exterior maintenance available. And there are step-up communities in which the buyer can begin with a single-family home, and move through the system as they need more help, and finally to a skilled nursing facility.
As an SRES (Senior Real Estate Specialist) certified Realtor, I have the knowledge and resources to help my clients and friends age in place. Sometimes all that is needed is a ramp into the house. Sometimes, a client will need to purchase a different home and make some minor changes to accommodate their needs. Sometimes, depending on the needs, serious renovations are needed. Each person's needs are unique and must be considered seriously.
I have built a team of providers who can assist my clients with every step. I have a specialist who provides assistance in choosing assisted living and nursing facilities. There's a team member who installs individual security systems, including cameras tied to your smartphone. I have a group that will set up your smart home, with thermostats, charging stations, Alexa, and smart lights. I have a contractor who can make adjustments to your current home for you to age in place. And I have a team member who can design your renovations to accommodate your needs.
As our society ages, I hope most people can age in a home that suits their needs and wants. And I am always available to help make it happen!
