Aging might be a natural part of life, but where and how we navigate this journey can transform the experience entirely. Gone are the days where the expectation - the only option - was to move into a retirement home or community, and live out your golden years while on a meal plan, surrounded by people you may or may not know/like, while your savings drains away.
But What is Aging in Place?
Aging in place simply refers to the decision to continue living in your own home as you get older, rather than moving to a retirement community or assisted living facility. It’s about crafting a safe, comfortable, and adaptable environment that grows with you, even as your physical needs or lifestyle may shift.
This might mean making small renovations to your home, like adding grab bars in the bathroom or rethinking the layout to improve accessibility. Or it could involve creating a strong support network of family, friends, and home care services to assist as needed. The goal is to allow you to live the way you want, for as long as possible, in a space that feels like home... because it IS home.
Why Are More People Choosing to Age in Place?
There’s a growing trend of older adults opting to age in place rather than moving to senior care facilities. But why the shift? Here are a few reasons:
1. Comfort and Familiarity
There’s no place like home. Aging in a familiar environment, surrounded by cherished memories, comfort and routines, can provide a sense of stability and emotional well-being that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere.
2. Independence
Aging in place means you remain in control of how you live. Whether it’s deciding what to eat, when to sleep, or how to spend your day, you maintain the freedom of choice that’s essential for many.
3. Community and Social Ties
Staying in your neighborhood allows you to keep your social connections intact. From friends next door to the local coffee shop you’ve visited for years, staying in place ensures that these important aspects of your daily life remain.
4. Cost-Effectiveness
For many, the financial burden of assisted living facilities or retirement homes is simply unappealing. Aging in place can be a more affordable option, especially if your home is already paid off or requires only small upgrades to meet your needs.
Financial Benefits of Aging in Place
Beyond the emotional and lifestyle advantages, aging in place is also a smart financial decision for many homeowners.
Lower Monthly Costs
While renovations might be necessary to adapt your home for aging, the ongoing costs of staying in your home are often lower than the long-term fees of living in a senior care facility. Monthly savings on housing can then be reinvested in other priorities, like travel, hobbies, or family.
Preserving Your Investment
If you own your home, staying put means continuing to benefit from its appreciation in value. Real estate often increases in value over time, meaning your home will likely serve as both your haven and an important financial asset.
Customizable Solutions
Aging in place allows you to tailor changes in your home specifically to your needs and preferences. Rather than paying a flat fee for one-size-fits-all senior housing, you can prioritize improvements that work best for you, making every dollar count.
Why You Should Think About Aging in Place When Buying a Home in Your 40s, 50s or 60s
If you’re planning another move anytime in these decades, it wouldn't be a mistake to think about how your next home could potentially grow with you. These are the decisions you want to make while you are still young and have the insight into how you live your life now, and how you want to continue living as you grow older, before others start trying to make decisions for you.
1. Build a Strong Foundation
By choosing a home that already aligns with aging-in-place principles, you can minimize costly renovations later. Consider these characteristics:
Single-story homes
Homes with minimal stairs, or stairs that aren't too steep
Homes with elevators
Homes that provide ample space for future accessibility features if needed
Homes in an HOA community (where the majority of your outdoor maintenance is taken care of)
2. Think Retirement
Thinking ahead while buying your home allows you to look for features that will grow with you. Key considerations:
Space considerations: If you have children, do you want to ensure they always have a place to stay when they come to visit?
Lifestyle considerations: Do you love outdoor tasks or projects like gardening or lawn care? Do you love sprucing up your outdoor living space and power washing? (some people do!) If so, you probably won't opt for a condo building.
Budget considerations: Will you be living on a fixed income, or will you have more financial comfort? Either way, take into consideration your monthly expenses like HOA, cleaning, landscaping, etc. to determine if it's feasible to continue in retirement.
3. Save Money in the Long Run
Planning ahead saves money and hassle down the line. A home chosen with aging in place in mind could mean fewer modifications or moves, which can add up to significant savings over the years.
4. Stay Ahead of the Curve
It’s easier to plan these changes when you’re active and healthy. By considering your future needs now, you’re taking control of one of the most important aspects of your retirement years.
Challenges to Aging in Place (And Why the Benefits Outweigh Them)
Of course, aging in place is not without its challenges. From potential health complications to home modifications and access to resources, it may require extra planning and effort. However, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.
Potential Obstacles:
Physical Limitations: Many homes aren’t designed with aging in mind, making stairs, narrow hallways, or tight bathrooms problematic over time.
Home Maintenance: If home upkeep becomes too difficult, you may need extra help or services, such as hiring a cleaner or handyman.
Lack of Immediate Care: For those with specific and ongoing medical needs, assisted living professionally staffed 24/7 may seem more convenient.
Overcoming These Challenges:
Home Modifications: Simple upgrades—like non-slip flooring, wider doorways, or lower kitchen counters—can make a world of difference.
Support Network: Building a solid support system of family, friends, and professional services will ease day-to-day challenges.
Technology: From medical alert systems to smart home devices, technology can help bridge the gap, enhancing safety and convenience.
At its heart, aging in place is about adaptability. With careful thought and preparation, you can create a lifestyle that works well for you—one that prioritizes comfort, independence, and stability.
Our Top Picks in Baltimore for Aging in Place
We know the Baltimore market and can help you determine if it makes sense from a real estate perspective to stay in your current home and renovate, or look for something better suited to age in place. These are some of our top picks for aging in place:
Pebblecreek - always a favorite, some have a first-floor master, others have a first-floor space that could be converted
Seminary Springs & The Meadows of Greenspring - same as Pebblecreek, excellent location
Mays Chapel condos - high rise, elevators
Villas at Woodbrook - brand new carriage homes, many models have first floor owner's suite
Devon Hill - some are one story, but some have stairs to get to them so may not be ideal for everyone
Thornton Woods - many have elevators, excellent Ruxton location, small inventory
Woodbrook on Charles - some have elevators, convenient to city & county
The Beeches Towson - small with stairs, but manageable
Highlands at Quarry Lake - excellent neighborhood amenities (pool, tennis courts, club house)
Ritz Carlton Residences & Four Seasons Residences downtown - elevators, luxury living, great amenities
Please get in touch for more options on aging in place in Baltimore; we're happy to help! claudia@theoharagroup.com
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