Could a Smaller Home be Safer for an Aging Parent?
You grew up in a two-story colonial with multiple bedrooms, living areas, and bathrooms. Now that your parent is getting older, you worry that the house is too much when it comes to heating expenses and upkeep. You think a smaller home would be safer. Here are the pros and cons of moving your parent to a smaller home.
Home Care Services Union County NJ – Could a Smaller Home be Safer for an Aging Parent?
Top Reasons to Downsize
As a house gets older, upkeep can become very expensive. If the electrical wires and breaker box are older, they may need replacing to prevent a fire. Older plumbing may start to leak and need updating. A septic system typically has a lifespan of 20 to 30 years before it needs replacing. An older roof may need shingles replaced after 20 years. Doors and windows also need replacing after 20 to 30 years. All of this may cost too much on a fixed income.
As your mom or dad’s mobility changes, a multi-level house may become impossible to handle. Your dad had a stroke and uses a walker. Your mom had a hip replacement and stairs are challenging. There are improvements that you can make. Installing a stair lift is one idea. Putting in a wheelchair ramp to the front door is another. That can be costly, however, especially if the front entrance is not wide enough for a wheelchair or walker.
Valid Concerns Seniors Have
If your mom or dad has dementia, moving may not be ideal. They’ll go from a familiar, recognizable location to a strange, frightening one. This can make the thought of moving stressful. If possible, look into home care services instead.
The expense of selling a home and buying a new one can be frustrating. According to Realtor.com, agents claim approximately 6 percent of a home’s selling price for a commission. There are also costs involved in attracting buyers.
A homeowner has to make sure taxes are paid up. If an inspector finds any issues with the home, the homeowner has to have them fixed or reduce the price to cover the cost of repairs. There are attorney fees and closing costs that may be required.
If your parent buys a house, many of the same expenses appear. There are closing costs, inspection fees, appraisals and title searches, and agent commissions. On a $250,000 home, it’s easy to spend more than $20,000 in commissions and fees.
With a home care services provider, your parent won’t have to try to keep up with cleaning alone. Caregivers can help with mobility and transportation needs. Home care services can help your mom or dad stay in their home.
Whether your mom or dad wants help multiple times a week or just once or twice per month, home care services allows your parent to age at home. Learn more about our home care services available in your area.
Sources: https://www.realtor.com/advice/sell/how-much-does-it-cost-to-sell-a-house/
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional Home Care Services in Union County NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today. Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.
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