An older man and woman are sitting together on a sofa and smiling at the camera. The woman has her arms around the man's shoulders. - ©© racorn /Depositphotos.com

Independent living in old age as an ideal: what needs to be considered?

Germany is getting older. Very few people realize what this means. One thing is clear: most seniors want to live independently for as long as possible. Preferably in familiar surroundings and in the home they have grown to love. But what does it take to achieve this noble goal and live as carefree in old age as in younger years?

Self-determination as a dazzling scenario

What exactly does this mean? Self-determination generally means that seniors can run their households independently without help from others and can do as they please within their own four walls. In general, many older people want to remain their own masters and not be accountable to anyone. Just as they have been accustomed to throughout their lives.

Aging as a challenge

However, as we get older, the demands we place on our environment gradually change. In most cases, physical ailments increase: whether it's declining eyesight or the realization that climbing stairs is suddenly becoming difficult or that the distances between the kitchen and the dining room are too far, over the years, the health of residents requires that their homes be adapted.

The tiresome song of accessibility

It is no secret that the mobility of many seniors declines with age. Then it's time to take action: perhaps installing a stair lift is enough to make it easier to get to the upper floor, or maybe the bathroom or kitchen needs to be remodeled because a walker or wheelchair now takes up space and bending and stretching are becoming increasingly difficult. If these measures are suitable for staying in your beloved home, you should spare no expense or effort. Then go ahead and renovate with confidence.

The ideal solution: a new property is needed

However, if your property cannot be converted to suit your needs, the only option is to move to a new home. Although it is usually difficult to say goodbye after all, in this case you are not only leaving the property itself behind, but also a whole chapter of your life – nevertheless, a new home also offers undreamt-of possibilities. In addition, the beautiful verse by the writer Hermann Hesse also applies here: "Every beginning has its own magic."

Spoiled for choice

If you decide to start a new chapter in your life, the question of the desired type of housing arises. From the concept of "assisted living" to setting up a senior citizens' shared apartment to renting a barrier-free new building, everything is conceivable. Infrastructure is certainly an important factor in your choice. After all, having shops for daily needs and public transportation within easy reach is also a compelling argument for young people when deciding for or against an apartment.

The beauty of it is that you can choose the type of housing that suits you best. So even in your senior years, with a wealth of life experience under your belt, things remain exciting.

Do you need support on this topic or are you thinking about selling your property? Then get in touch with us. We will be happy to advise you. Professionally and personally.

Notes For reasons of readability, the generic masculine form is used in this text. Female and other gender identities are expressly included where necessary for the meaning of the text.

Legal notice: This article does not constitute tax or legal advice in individual cases. Please consult a lawyer and/or tax advisor to clarify the facts of your specific case. Photo: © racorn /Depositphotos.com

Both have different advantages and disadvantages. It depends on your personal situation.

Which is better: real estate annuity or lifelong right of residence?

Are you looking for a new home? Get in touch with us!

We may already have the right property for you in our real estate database. We value personal contact and take time for you and your wishes to ensure a stress-free transaction. Contact us! We will be happy to advise you.

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