Home Features Retirees Should Prioritize When Buying a Home

​Retirees should reconsider their living arrangements as they age. This is mostly to fit their changing needs and lifestyles. Their homes, which once served as bustling hubs for raising kids and hosting friends and family, may no longer meet their demand for a relaxed and accessible lifestyle. Transitioning into retirement requires that they find a home that offers unmatched comfort and is easy to maintain. Choosing the right home can significantly improve their quality of life. This requires that they prioritize the following aspects of home design and location.

​Single-Story Layouts

​Layout should be a priority consideration for retirees looking to buy homes for various reasons. Single-story layouts are a desirable feature, as they cater to the needs and preferences. For starters, mobility and physical agility decreases with age. Homes designed on single levels enhance safety, convenience, and quality of life.

The most obvious benefit of these layouts is their lack of stairs. Stairs pose significant risks for falls and injuries, which is a common concern for aging retirees. Living in these homes makes it easier for them to navigate their living space with ease.

Single-story homes also boost mobility and independence. This is especially beneficial for retirees using mobility aids like wheelchairs and walkers. Since all rooms are on the same level, they won’t have to navigate steps, easing movement throughout the house. Such accessibility promotes independence, as they can perform ADLs with greater ease and confidence.

Accessibility Modifications

​Accessibility modifications are also a crucial concern for retirees looking to buy homes. These modifications are designed to enhance safety, comfort, and independence. The most common modification is widened hallways and doorways.

These are important adjustments for accommodating mobility aids like wheelchairs. Standard doorways are a barrier that makes it difficult for aging retirees to move freely between rooms. Expanding doorways provide enough clearance for safe navigation. Similarly, widened hallways allow for smooth movement throughout the home.

Lever-style door handles are the second most important modification for retirees’ homes. Seniors suffering from arthritis or having limited hand strength often find it difficult to operate traditional round doorknobs. Lever-style handles are an accessible alternative that requires minimal effort to open or close. These options are easier to grip and can be operated using an elbow or forearm.

Other crucial adjustments for retirees include installing grab bars and handrails. Non-slip floors and improving lighting are also important. While some may be costly, applying for down payment assistance programs for first-time homebuyers allows retirees to save some upfront costs when buying homes. They can use the saved amounts to cover modification costs.

Proximity to Services and Amenities

Location is a crucial consideration for retirees transitioning into this phase of life. Proximity to essential services is important, as it enhances their daily life and well-being. The most important consideration is access to healthcare facilities. Easy access to hospitals and pharmacies ensures that they receive quick care when in need.

Homes should also be close to grocery stores and dining options to minimize the need for extensive travel. Proximity to transportation, safety, and security are also important considerations.

Endnote

​Retirees looking for homes to buy often have different priorities. Unlike conventional homebuyers, their considerations should improve their quality of life as they age. Be it a condominium, retirement community, or modifying existing homes, prioritizing accessibility and convenience ensures that they buy homes that support a fulfilling retirement  lifestyle.