Study & Planning Part I

Ok, then. What is SIGNIFICANT study and planning?
Well; significant means important, of consequence..and herein, esp. the "of consequence". The normal life-function of ageing brings on several issues "of consequence" (an effect/result) from "minor" to "major", not withstanding crisis issues i.e.; heart attack, stroke,etc.

Part I: Let's start with the "minor"; such as changing eyesight, hearing, and mobility, all which impact your living at home. One needs to study lighting, natural and artifical; sound and noise transmission; mobility, ingress/egress, doorways, stairs, hallways.

Lighting:  As we age there is a corresponding necessity for more/better lighting. The "visual" ability must be enhanced. Elements such as size, placement of windows (natural light) and lighting fixtures (artificial) which at one point in time seemed sufficient; now become inadequate. Determinations must be made to the best efficient/effective way to make adjustments. Most cases, it's a combination of both components.

Kitchens, baths, reading areas must be reviewed in terms of TASK (focused) lighting. Ambient lighting requirements are also important. The ability to "see" and move safelyy throughout your home, esp. hallways and stairs.

Hearing:  Phones, smoke detectors, doorbells; even the base "accoustical footprint" (speaking, sound, noise) shall require mitigations/enhancements.

Mobility:  The natural ageing process changes one's dexterity. More space is nescssary in which to maneuver.   Balance will increasingly be a concern.  Geting "up-down" and bending over become aggravating if not troublesome

And what about ARTHRITIS??  We're not talking about that difficulty in opening fruit jars (do these still exist!!) nor twist-off beverage caps.  Rotation of door knobs, fumbling for toggle light switches, opening cabinet doors, getting things off shelves...these are what come into play, just to mention a few.

These "issues" should be addressed during the "Boomer" - not wait until the "Golden" years. Besides, adapting your home for these adds greatly to your useability and comfort.

These issues, as all, are best addressed in combinations of solutions; not items addressed separately.  Everything starts w/a "situatiion analysis" of your existing conditions.

Another component of SIGNIFICANT study and planning is HEREDITY.
No, not the "if your parents didn't have kids you prob. won't have either" bit; but the genetic characteristics of your family history.  Specifically, concerns for health conditions.  How did their health effect their living.  Are there chances you may follow similarly.  What changes, modifications to your home would then be necessary to age-at-home.

As I shall say over-over:  don't wait until a crisis happens before doing anything...be prepared.  My grandmother used to say ...a few ounces of fore-thought are worth pounds and pounds of cure.