At some point, when you start thinking about the years ahead, this question usually pops into your mind:v
“Could I stay here long-term… or would it make more sense to move?”
It’s not always something that feels urgent. It usually comes up in the little moments, like walking up and down the stairs, staying on top of the upkeep, or simply imagining what the next chapter of your life might look like in this home.
For most people, it’s simple: they want to stay.
A study from the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology found that about 90% of adults over 65 would rather stay in their homes as they get older, as shown below:
Even if staying feels like the right choice, it’s still a good idea to think ahead about what that could really look like. That’s where having the right agent by your side can make all the difference.
What You Need To Plan for If You’re Staying in Your Home
Aging in place is absolutely possible. But it works best when you have a plan. Here’s why. The home that once fit you perfectly may need to evolve as the years go on. And it’s a lot less stressful when you can plan ahead for those updates and expenses.
Sometimes that just means making small updates like adding grab bars in the shower.
Other times, it means bigger decisions like reworking the layout or moving key living spaces to the first floor.
Some of those changes are simple, while others can turn into a more meaningful investment. That’s exactly why it helps to think about it early. Not because you need to make any decisions right now, but because it gives you time to prepare.
Time to really understand what your home might need.
Time to look into all your options.
Time to connect with the right contractors.
Time to spread out the cost of the improvements.
According to ElderLife Financial, here’s a general idea of what costs could look like depending on the work that needs to be done, as shown below:
And don’t worry, if staying in your home is what you really want but the costs are a concern, there are still options. Depending on your situation, you may be able to access financial assistance programs, and tools like home warranties can also help cover unexpected expenses.
Just keep in mind that if you’re thinking about making updates, it’s a good idea to have a quick conversation first. A real estate agent can help you figure out which improvements make the most sense for your situation and how they might affect your home’s value in your local market.y
When Moving Might Make More Sensev
But staying in place isn’t always the right fit for everyone. According to Pegasus Senior Living:
““While most seniors hope to age in place, practical considerations sometimes make selling a home the wiser choice.”
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Sometimes it’s just a simple shift, when the home that once made life easier starts to feel like it’s making things harder.
That might look like:
Maintenance or yard work that’s starting to feel overwhelming
Stairs or layouts that are getting harder to manage day to day
Or needing more support or care, or feeling too far from loved ones
And sometimes it’s not about necessity at all, it’s about lifestyle. Some homeowners simply don’t want to deal with major renovations anymore. Others are ready to simplify, downsize, or move somewhere that fits this next chapter better, whether that’s a smaller home, a 55+ community, or being closer to family.
For them, moving is really just about making everyday life a little easier.
Bottom Line
There really isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer here.
Some people choose to stay and make updates, while others decide to move to simplify things. Either option can be the right one. The goal isn’t to decide today, but to understand your choices early so when the time comes, you feel confident instead of rushed.
And if you ever want someone to talk it through with and explore what the future could look like for you, let’s connect.
