Now that I'm of a certain age, I've been thinking of ways in which I can age in place, maintaining my independence, yet be able to call on a community of friends and family or an organization like Senior Meals if I need a helping hand.   

Some individuals may want to downsize from a large home where they raised their families to something smaller and more manageable, while others will want to stay in the homes they've occupied for most of their adult lives. Still others will find transitional facilities that offer options for independent living, assisted living, and memory care on one campus better suited to their needs. Each situation is unique, and it's important to evaluate your circumstances and needs as you plan for aging in place.  

For me, part of aging in place means having a home that is easy to navigate and take care of, is comfortable and financially affordable. During the last decade, that has meant downsizing from a five-bedroom house and a large yard to a two-bedroom house and smaller yard to my current home—a one-bedroom apartment with no maintenance at all.  

I've found it very liberating to sell almost all my furniture and lots of accumulated stuff, and keep only what Marie Kondo advises "brings me joy." Plus, the smaller footprint and the absence of so many possessions in my apartment means less cleaning and upkeep on my part and more hours to pursue activities I enjoy.  

"If you're thinking of aging in place, it's essential to plan ahead and prioritize your needs," says Badger Peabody & Smith Broker/Owner Andy Smith. "Is it important to you to remain close to family and the circle of friends you've gathered over the years, but maybe in a smaller place? If you plan to remain in the family home, do you have the funds to hire a contractor or the DIY skills to modify your house?"   

Homebuyers in their 40s and 50s might want to consider aging in place options during their home search, as it's never too early to plan ahead.  

"Will the home you're considering be easily adaptable in the future with accommodations for things like wider doorways for wheelchair access or a stair lift?" says Smith. "Can a first-floor study be easily converted to a bedroom, or is there room to build an addition for a bedroom and bath on the first floor level? Are the services you'll need as you age, like access to medical care—particularly if you have health issues—be easily accessible."  

Several upgrades that can make it easier to age in place could include installing a non-step shower, replacing door knobs with levers that offer easy opening for arthritic hands, placing handrails and safety bars in the bathroom, hallways, and stairs, adding non-slip flooring, and building a handicap-accessible ramp.   

My needs have changed over the last decade. After half a dozen years in the South, I've returned to a region of New Hampshire where I already have a network of friends and easy access to activities and places I enjoy: cross-country skiing, walking, biking, restaurants where I can lunch with friends, a good library, and numerous cultural opportunities. Many are within walking distance of my new home, and grocery shopping and medical care are a short drive away.  

Should my circumstances change, I'll need to re-evaluate, but right now I'm confident I've chosen the aging in place lifestyle that works for me—a home that's affordable and easy to care for with no outside maintenance required, a circle of cherished friends, and lots of fun and rewarding activities.   

Eileen Alexander, a New Hampshire native, made a short detour through North Carolina before returning to the Granite State. She has a yen for old homes with character, colorful flower gardens, and expansive mountain views. 

See this article and more in the fall edition of Journey Home, Badger Peabody & Smith Realty's magazine focusing on New Hampshire real estate and local living.