In every stage of life, our living situation plays a decisive role in our well-being and quality of life. Does moving really make sense in old age? We support you in shaping your second half of life comfortably and independently.
Choosing the right property becomes particularly important in old age. For many older people, living in a house that is too big becomes increasingly challenging. Although the house may have been perfect for a family when they were younger, it can become difficult to maintain in old age. When deciding whether to stay there or move to a smaller, age-appropriate apartment, the following key questions need to be answered:
- Can the house be maintained physically, mentally, and financially?
Caring for and maintaining a house requires resources and energy that may be more limited in old age. Regular garden maintenance, repairs, and cleaning can become a burden, especially when residents are less mobile in old age. It is often necessary to seek outside help, whether from tradespeople, gardening services, or cleaning staff, to keep the property in good condition.
- Is the financial budget sufficient to cover running costs with a maximum of two pensions?
Your financial situation in retirement is an important consideration when thinking about where to live in old age. A detailed analysis of the running costs for your current home will tell you whether these can be covered by your pension income. If the running costs represent a financial burden or your pension income is not sufficient to maintain your standard of living, it may be advisable to consider a more affordable housing option.
- Will it be possible to maintain contact with family and friends if physical mobility declines?
A large house can also lead to social isolation, especially if the residents have difficulty leaving it due to physical limitations. This can result in them having less contact with the outside world and feeling lonely. A smaller, well-located property could make it easier for residents to participate in community activities and maintain social contacts, which can have a positive effect on their well-being and quality of life.
Want to know what your property is worth right now? Use my free online valuation tool for an initial estimate.
We should ask ourselves honestly: What does quality of life mean, and how can we ensure it in old age?
Quality of life in old age means having an environment that meets our needs and desires and gives us a sense of security, comfort, and satisfaction. This could mean looking for a suitable property in good time that is barrier-free, requires less maintenance, and is possibly close to services and social support facilities—for example, moving closer to family. Other aspects may include:
- Safety
A smaller property can often be safer, especially if it has modern security features such as alarm systems, smoke detectors, and barrier-free access. This can help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries in the home. - Ease of maintenance
A smaller property usually requires less care and maintenance, which is less stressful and time-consuming. This allows residents to have more time for themselves and their hobbies instead of having to worry about housework and repairs. - Mobility
A smaller property can often be better adapted to the needs of older people, especially if it is designed to be barrier-free. This makes it easier to move around the house and can help maintain independence and mobility in old age. - Community
Moving to a smaller property in a retirement complex or residential community for seniors can give residents access to a lively community where they can socialize and participate in shared activities. This can help prevent loneliness in old age and strengthen the feeling of belonging. - Financial flexibility
By selling a house that is too large and moving to a smaller property, older people can gain financial flexibility. They can make the most of their financial resources to support their lifestyle in retirement and possibly free up money for travel, hobbies, or medical care.
Change can be frightening, especially when it determines what our new life will look like.
At times like these, it is important to have someone by your side who understands the implications of these life decisions. I will accompany you—and, if you wish, together with your relatives—in making a decision that will ensure your quality of life in old age.
Arrange a non-binding consultation today and let us plan the next step in this new phase of your life together.
