THEY REMAIN INDEPENDENT AND AUTONOMOUS
Have your children now moved out and are you outgrowing your family home? Or are you already limited in your mobility but don't want to move into a retirement home? We know many different forms of retirement living that could suit you.
Long life expectancy presents old people, their relatives, politicians and society with new challenges. The period of life after the working and family phase up to the time of increased fragility, when physical and mental impairments are increasingly to be expected, lasts longer today. Many elderly people want to retain their independence in their own home for as long as possible. The design of the home is therefore becoming increasingly important, as are housing costs and housing security. The location of the residential building and the immediate surroundings are also becoming increasingly important factors, as they have a major influence on the ability to participate in social life, run errands or use everyday services.
LIFE ACCORDING TO DESIRE AND PREFERENCE
Most older people do not need any special housing apart from barrier-free living space in well-developed locations and close to shopping facilities. One of the challenges is therefore that there are very few affordable, small flats, especially in the centres. For the small proportion of people over 65 who are dependent on help, there is now a wide range of care services available at home: from emergency call systems and care and home help to the delivery of ready-made meals. At the same time, a wide range of housing options are emerging that cater to increasingly individualised needs. For example, housing estates with specific services, "cluster" residential communities or buildings specially adapted to the needs of older people, some of which are integrated into projects to promote intergenerational understanding. Finally, around a quarter of over-80s are dependent on daily assistance and therefore need to live in a suitable facility.
NO LIMIT - BARRIER-FREE LIVING
An important aspect of living in old age is the barrier-free design of living space and the living environment. Easy access and unrestricted use of rooms, buildings and facilities are a prerequisite for people with walking disabilities to be able to live independently and participate in social life for as long as possible. Three basic requirements must therefore be taken into account in all planning: no steps, sufficient passage width, sufficiently large movement areas, including for people in wheelchairs or with walking aids.
OBSTACLES TO CHANGING RESIDENCE
However, the needs of older people should be given greater consideration not only in the construction of flats, but also in marketing (renting and selling) and property management, for example by providing them with personal contact persons. In old age, a change of residence can involve a great deal of effort during the search, the move and the familiarisation process. This is why older people want to be particularly sure before they decide to move house. Housing adverts should be detailed and comprehensive and the marketing process must give older people enough time to make a decision.
HOW WOULD YOU LIKE TO LIVE IN OLD AGE?
The discussion about barrier-free and age-appropriate living is becoming increasingly important in connection with the ageing population. Coping with everyday life often becomes difficult as people get older, and even if they are not in need of care, many people are dependent on support. Various criteria such as personal mobility, social aspects and, last but not least, financial means influence the decision in favour of a particular form of housing.
Options in old age:
- Living at home with services
- Assisted living flats
- Retirement homes
- Mixed-generation settlements
- Shared flats or houses
- Residential care groups
- Retirement centres
- Nursing homes
Most people want to live independently within their own four walls into old age - unfortunately, our health often puts a spanner in the works. Familiar surroundings promise a sense of security and keep memories alive, but it is still advisable to think about where you want to live in old age in good time. The right form of housing in old age depends on various factors. We will be happy to provide you with further details in a personal consultation and can provide you with the right experts.
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