Moving house in old age – senior housing
Germany's senior citizens are becoming increasingly active and independent. Even in old age, they want to maintain this independence. This includes remaining in their own homes for as long as possible. However, needs change with age. Therefore, it's worthwhile to consider moving to age-appropriate housing early on.
When maintaining a once-beloved garden becomes increasingly difficult and climbing stairs becomes more challenging, many seniors begin to consider moving to an age-appropriate apartment. An age-appropriate apartment is not necessarily the same as an apartment for people requiring care. Nevertheless, it is advisable to include this aspect in the planning.
The senior citizens' apartment
As people age, it's advisable to avoid climbing stairs. Therefore, having fewer rooms on the same floor is practical. To be prepared for unexpected events, the rooms should be accessible and offer enough space for a wheelchair. This also applies to hallways and doorways. Make sure these are wide enough for a wheelchair. Low handles on windows and doors are also helpful. Even if a senior-friendly apartment should be accessible, it doesn't necessarily have to be on the ground floor; after all, that's what elevators are for. Ideally, there should be two elevators in the building in case one breaks down.
Pay attention to the infrastructure
Whether a senior apartment is truly age-appropriate depends not only on its furnishings but also on its surroundings. The most important factor is good infrastructure. This means that doctors and supermarkets should be within walking distance. A hospital should also be nearby. Accidents are not uncommon in old age, and sometimes a few minutes can be crucial. How convenient, then, if the ambulance doesn't have to come from the next town. If seniors have decided to live alone, it is advisable to install an emergency button. This allows emergency services to be contacted quickly and easily.
For those who long for the company of their peers in old age, a senior living residence offers a good alternative to a traditional apartment. Since these residences are specifically designed for seniors, renovations are unnecessary. All the required age-appropriate modifications have already been made. Seniors with low incomes may also be eligible for government subsidies to live in such specialized facilities.
Are you looking to sell your property and move into a senior-friendly apartment? Contact us! We'd be happy to advise you.
Are you considering selling your current property and moving to a larger or smaller apartment? Contact us! We'd be happy to help and guide you through the entire process.
No results found:
https://de.statista.com/themen/172/senioren/
https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seniorenwohnung
Legal notice: This article does not constitute tax or legal advice for any specific case. Please consult a lawyer and/or tax advisor to clarify the facts of your individual situation.
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About the author
Harry Mohr
Real estate agent (Chamber of Industry and Commerce)Harry Mohr, author of this article
