How to Choose a Retirement Home

When choosing a retirement home, you should take into account both your ideas of the ideal retirement, and the realities of the limitations that time puts on a body. If you take this into account early, you'll be able to stay in your chosen home longer.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Avoid stairs.
   If you want to stay in your home as long as possible, stair are a serious problem. If there are stairs to the front door, you may become trapped in the house. If there are stairs to the bedroom or bathroom, keep in mind that one day they may not be reachable.

2. Choose a safe walking neighborhood.
   Various medical conditions can mean a loss of a driver's license. At the same time, light daily exercise like walking, and the variety of getting out of the house can extend life. Look for a home within short walking distance of a grocery store, and drug store. Pay attention to what else is within walking distance or a short bus or train ride away.

3. Look for walk in showers.
   With bad joints, or wheelchairs it's easier to use these than a tub you have to step into.

4. Watch out for slippery floors.
   Wet glazed tile can be hazardous.

5. Think about how you'll get to the doctor. Is there a shuttle? How much would a taxi cost?