Aging in place has become more popular – especially in the days of “staying safe at home” during the pandemic. In fact, one thing that the coronavirus pandemic has taught us, is that we can truly enjoy our homes more – and people have really invested in them.

From renovating rooms into luxurious spaces to enhancing outdoor patios and decks – homeowners are seeing more value in their homes than ever before. Home really is where the heart is.

So, when it comes to retirement and the years beyond, it’s understandable that many homeowners desire the choice to age in place in their own home, rather than to move to a senior care home environment. All it takes is some planning to ensure your home will meet your future physical and social needs.

Not quite sure where to start? No worries. Our team of home builders and active adult community professionals have put together the following guide to help set you up for aging in place success!

Remodel Your Current Home

Some simple adjustments and small renovations now, will take away from having to do these projects later, and will help set your home up for a safer experience in your more senior years. Here is a list to get you started:

• Curbless showers with bath bars
• Comfort-height toilets
• Larger bathrooms to accommodate walkers or wheelchairs
• Wider doorways
• Open floor plans in the living space
• Smart motion-activated overhead lighting
• Door levers in place of doorknobs
• Touch activated faucets

If a list seems a bit overwhelming, we recommend starting with smaller projects first, and complete the larger ones over time. If you currently live in a two-story home or plan to, consider adding a chair lift to the stairs or convert a first-floor room close to the bathroom to a bedroom.

Build a Custom Home

If you realize remodeling is not a workable solution, consider building a custom home with all the safety features you need from the get-go. The sale of your current property could provide you with the funds needed to build your dream home in your ideal location with all the amenities you crave.

Move to a Master Planned Community

Planned communities can offer many great benefits – especially for those in retirement and beyond. They can provide a sense of safety, with plenty of opportunities to connect and really get to know your neighbors – from organized activities to shared amenities like pool areas and parks.

Other benefits can include being part of an HOA that helps protect the value of your home and neighborhood, to secure community entrances and some home and landscaping maintenance. Planned communities are also usually conveniently located near medical offices, grocery stores and entertainment centers.

Consider an Active Adult Community

Living in an active adult neighborhood designed for those over 55 allows you to enjoy maintenance-free living alongside others who like spending time doing activities they love. These communities offer amenities like:

• Swimming pools
• Clubhouse
• Landscaped open spaces
• Water features
• Sport courts
• Hobby rooms

All the homes include extra features to keep you safe. If you choose a new community, you will also have the option to build a custom home.

Volusia County’s Top Home Builder With Aging In Place Packages

Making any of these changes will help you achieve your goal of aging in place, in your own home. If you’re looking to build a home, or to move to an active adult community – work with Volusia County’s leading residential contractor. Gallery Homes provides quality constructed homes at exceptional values, using the latest technology and carefully selected materials.

Contact Gallery Homes online or call our team directly at (386) 260-2069 to ask our team about our Aging in Place package, as well as additional options for your home to help you age in place safely, today!