Future-proof living, so you can grow old in your own familiar home and surroundings. Many people want that, and due to changes in healthcare, there’s often no other choice. Fortunately, you can continue living at home comfortably for longer by adapting your home to make it suitable for all stages of life. But what do you need to consider? And what are your financial options? Rabobank is happy to help you achieve future-proof living and has compiled a list of 8 tips.
Have you ever thought about whether your home is still suitable for you if you start having trouble climbing stairs? Most people wait until their health deteriorates before making adjustments to their home. But don’t wait too long. Prepare thoroughly for the modifications and consider what you need to be able to continue living independently in your home for as long as possible. Also explore what’s possible by, for example, increasing your mortgage. This often gives you more flexibility in your budget.
Learn more about the costs of modifying and renovating your home. By talking to companies and other people, you’ll get a better idea of what you want and what’s possible. For example, look up information online or at your local municipality. You can also check with your local municipality to see if you’re eligible for financial assistance.
If you want to renovate your own home, you may be able to pay for it using the equity in your home. Check with your bank to see what your options are. Once you know how much you can spend, it’s easier to make decisions. If you live in a rental, the housing authority might help cover the cost of the home modifications. Ask your landlord about this.
Do you know anyone in your circle who has made home modifications? Ask them about their experiences. How did they go about it? Why did they do it? How did they like the results? Maybe they’ll even let you come see the results for yourself. Positive experiences are contagious.
Tackling the whole house at once is too much for many people. If you start with just one room, it’s easier to manage. A safe bathroom, for example. Or a downstairs bathroom. Or a safe staircase. That way, you can gradually make your home better suited for the future.
While you’re busy preparing your home for the future, take a look at the options for making your home more energy-efficient. Making your home more sustainable can significantly reduce your energy costs and also provide greater comfort—for example, by helping your home maintain a more consistent temperature, both on cold and hot days. With Rabobank’s free online HomeScan, you can easily discover how to make your home more sustainable and energy-efficient.
If you have trouble with housework or odd jobs around the house, it’s a good idea to get some help. A housekeeper, handyman, window cleaner, or gardener can make it easier for you to continue living independently. More and more people are choosing this option as they get older.
Moving might be a better solution than adapting your current home. But how can you figure that out? And how can you find out what moving options are available? You can enlist the help of a moving coach or housing coach. This expert will help you find a suitable home. Housing coaches work for municipalities and housing associations. They also offer their services as independent professionals.
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