It’s a debate that has hit the news this week; Should elderly people downsize their homes to help first-time buyers? We support elderly people at home with our Careline Alarms, but how do you ensure your loved ones are in a home that suits their needs?
Last-Time Buyers
Elderly people are being referred to as last-time buyers who are often living alone in oversized homes once their own family has grown up and moved out.
It’s suggested that if last-time buyers were to downsize from their large family homes, it would free up more properties for younger buyers to purchase near to schools, work and friendly communities.
Choosing to Downsize
Of course, it’s a big decision to make and one that elderly people should not be pressured into. Many older people choose to stay in large homes because of the memories they have there and the relationships they’ve built. They may also feel comforted by knowing the local area and being familiar with their surroundings in and around their home.
For others, these homes can become empty and expensive to maintain. Large houses can pose problems to the frail, who can’t easily get upstairs or look after large gardens. When a relative is keen to find a home suitable for them, it’s good to discuss what they require. Will it need to be a bungalow? Should it have a garden?
Whatever the decision, staying at home and not in care can be done with our Careline Alarm System. Our service protects and supports the elderly, all day every day thanks to an easy-to-use alarm.
Restricting Elderly People from Moving Home?
The Telegraph shares several barriers that elderly people face when looking to downsize. Examples are limited properties that suit their needs, restrictive lending to pensioners, and moving costs being too high.
