Accessible—and Affordable—Housing in Short Supply as Boomers Move into Retirement
It’s no secret that U.S. population is getting older. In fact, the number of people aged 65 and older is expected to increase from 48 million to 79 million over the next 20 years. What’s missing, according to a report from the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies, is sufficient supply of accessible and affordable housing.
And that could be bad news for a lot of older Americans.
Fortunately, there are steps we can take to help ensure that our homes meet our needs, today, and in the future. It’s a concept known as aging in place, and it’s all about helping older adults remain in their homes for as long as possible.
While there are many components to successfully aging in place, including having a support system of caregivers and helpers in place, if necessary, one of the most important is home design. A recent article in the New York Times details the ways in which some people are renovating their existing homes to ensure they meet their needs as they age. Some suggestions include:
- Installing pull-out shelves in cabinets to minimize bending
- Adding grab bars to bathrooms
- Setting up a moveable kitchen island that allows for greater maneuverability with a wheelchair or walker
Of course, if you’re not ready to renovate, or would just prefer a newer home in a community that caters to older adults, you can consider a 55+ community. Here in northeast Florida, there are a number of communities that strive to meet the needs of older adults, both physically and socially. Most builders will offer options for assistive devices/design, including grab bars and wider door openings, in their new home floor plans. They also provide a wealth of opportunities for residents to meet and socialize over common interests through organized activities, interest groups and more.
Some of the most popular 55+ communities in Ponte Vedra and the Jacksonville area include:
- Del Webb Ponte Vedra at Nocatee
- Sweetwater by Del Webb
- Artisan Lakes at Nocatee
- Cascades at World Golf Village
If you’re interested in learning more about homes for sale in 55+ communities in the Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra, Florida area, contact us today. We’d be happy to help.
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