As we age, our needs change and tasks that we used to do with ease become more difficult. Older knees may object to climbing the stairs multiple times each day and a first-floor bedroom may become a necessity. However, your home may not accommodate this type of change without a major renovation, which is not in the cards.
According to the UDS Foundation, “Only 1% of homes in the United States are conducive to aging in place, but more than 75% of older Americans want to stay in their own homes for as long as possible.”
Those who can’t stomach a lengthy, complicated home renovation may be interested in a relatively new trend in residential real estate which offers an attractive alternative. We’re talking about new home communities, created for active adults aged 55 and older, which contain thoughtfully designed homes built for aging in place.
Benefits of Aging in Place
Few of us are quick to give up our autonomy and independence, even when our health is on the decline. Aging in place is all about maintaining a certain quality of life, while having access to a community that keeps us active and engaged.
Living near friendly faces and neighbors you trust can help you stay social and maintain connection to the outside world. These connections are an important part of being mentally and physically healthy, especially as we age.
Cost of living is also an important factor. Communities that include homes built for aging in place can be more affordable than other types of senior living centers.
Designing Homes for Aging Adults
What does an age-in-place home look like? Whether you’re designing or building a home for aging in place, these features make life for seniors more comfortable and convenient:
- Barrier-free showers
- Laundry room located just off the owner’s suite
- Eye-level microwave ovens
- Raised dishwashers
- Open layouts
- Multi-level, curved countertops
- Levered door handles
- Easy-access storage areas
These are just a few of the thoughtful design features Del Webb at Union Park has added to make life better for aging homeowners. Restricted to families with at least one resident who is 55 years of age or older and no one under 19 in permanent residence, this vibrant community offers exclusive amenities and new construction homes designed to make life more convenient for folks as they age.
Senior Community Considerations
Age-in-place homes are an important part of maintaining a vibrant, independent life as you age, but so is the community you keep. Setting matters when you’re considering creating a forever home. The more active you are and the more connections you have, the healthier you’ll be.
In senior living neighborhoods like Del Webb at Union Park, you’re surrounded by nature and an extensive walking trail system. You’ll have access to the centrally located amenity center, resort-style pool, fitness center, and more. The lifestyle director is always thinking of new activities and classes to keep your mind and body active.
Whether you like line dancing, cooking classes, or learning new skills, the right active adult community should be able to add some enriching, fulfilling activity to life.
Aging in Place FAQ:
Debating whether a 55+ community like Del Webb at Union Park by Hillwood in Little Elm, Tx is right for you? Consider these queries:
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- What is aging in place? SeniorLiving.org says, “Aging in place is when a person lives and ages in their residence of choice, for as long as they are able to.”
- Why is aging in place important? Aging in place is important because it allows older adults to be self-sufficient and to remain in a vibrant, active community as they grow older. Safety, autonomy, and continued connection are all important reasons folks choose to age in place.
- Why do seniors prefer aging in place? Seniors prefer aging in place because they are able to maintain an independent lifestyle later into their golden years. So long as one stays active and feels like they belong to a cohesive community, aging in place is a great alternative to more expensive types of care like assisted living or other senior care institutions which can make seniors feel like they’re aging faster.
Explore Aging-in-Place New Homes with Del Webb at Union Park by Hillwood
Want to age in place at home? The exclusive amenities for Del Webb residents at Union Park in Little Elm are second to none. Fill your next chapter with the resort-style living of a uniquely vibrant 55+ active adult neighborhood within a picturesque new home community. The age-inspired, quality crafted single-story homes are only the beginning. There is a 10,000 square foot amenity complex that includes an indoor center, a private community pool, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and bocce ball courts. Plus, there are miles of shaded walking trails throughout Union Park for Del Webb homeowners to enjoy.
The time to start thinking about aging in place comes long before you ever need to make a change. If you’re considering it, visit the New Homes page of our website to see availability from Del Webb and join the Del Webb VIP interest list to be the first to hear updates.
