You don’t have to be an elderly person to start thinking about the future of your body, brain, and home. Whatever your age, now would be a good time to think about physical changes, and how you can make your home serve your needs. You don’t have to be forced to leave your home and the community you love, because your home can be adapted to your needs, if you plan properly.

Aging in place refers to the ability of older adults to live independently and comfortably in their own homes as they age, rather than moving to specialized care facilities. This concept emphasizes the importance of maintaining one's lifestyle, community connections, and autonomy. It often involves making modifications to the home, such as installing grab bars, ensuring accessibility, and utilizing technology to enhance safety and communication. Successful aging in place requires support from family, friends, and community services, enabling seniors to manage their health, engage socially, and receive assistance when needed, all while remaining in familiar surroundings they cherish.

You CAN stay where you are. You can continue to live in the community you love by making modifications that will serve you well as your needs evolve.

Consider these options:

• Renovate your bathrooms and kitchen.

• Address the challenges of stairs.

• Update the lighting. No dark shadows!

• Your children are grown and out of the house—capitalize on the newfound space!

• Multi-generational living is another option - keep your family close.

• You might think about building an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) for your grown children or yourself. An ADU can be a garage conversion, some unused basement or ground level space, an extension of the home, or a new stand-alone building. It could even be a source of retirement income.

• Plan your home’s potential to ensure it can be your forever home.