Planning Ahead: Why Housing is Key to Aging Securely

By Julie HayesJune 17, 2025

When we think about aging, we often focus on health, retirement savings and estate planning. But one of the most important and overlooked factors in aging securely is housing. Where we live as we grow older plays a huge role in our physical and financial stability and emotional well-being. Yet many people don’t consider the long-term impact of their housing decisions until it’s too late.

Whether you’re a young adult considering your first home, middle-aged or already retired, it’s never too early to think about how your housing will support your needs as you age. By planning ahead, you can ensure you and your loved ones can continue living comfortably, safely and independently for years to come.

Why Housing Matters

Housing is more than just a roof over your head. It’s the foundation of a stable, connected and healthy life. For older adults, the right housing can:

  • Support independence: A home that’s easy to navigate reduces fall risks and allows people to stay self-sufficient longer.
  • Reduce social isolation: Proximity to family, friends or community centers can encourage connection and activity.
  • Promote safety: Accessible features and a safe neighborhood help protect against accidents and crime.
  • Ease financial strain: Affordable housing helps older adults live well on fixed incomes. Access to home equity can also ease financial strain and help with important expenses.
  • Enable aging in place: If your house is able to support your needs as you age, you may not need to move.

Unfortunately, not all housing options are designed with aging in mind. Stairs, narrow doorways, poor lighting or high maintenance costs can become significant barriers over time. That’s why it’s so important to be thoughtful about housing choices throughout your life.

Planning Early: Smart Moves at Any Age

You don’t need to be nearing retirement to think about how your home will work for you in the future. Here are a few tips for people at different life stages:

In Your Early Adulthood:

  • When buying a home, think long-term. Are there full bathrooms and bedrooms on the first floor? Is the home near transit, healthcare or grocery stores?
  • Consider the cost of upkeep—will you be able to manage landscaping, repairs or major updates as you age?

In Your 50s and 60s:

  • Take a hard look at your current living space. Would you be able to stay there if your mobility changed?
  • Explore simple home modifications like grab bars, no-step entries or wider doorways.
  • Talk with loved ones and other members of your household about future housing goals—do you hope to stay in your current home, downsize or move closer to family?

In Your 70s and Beyond:

  • Evaluate how your current home and neighborhood are working for you. Are there spaces you no longer use? Are stairs becoming a concern? Has the crime level increased locally? Are you within close distance to groceries, pharmacies, hospitals and other supportive services? In the event you can no longer drive, are there transportation options?
  • Learn about local resources that can help with home repairs, accessibility upgrades or in-home care.
  • Discuss your current status with a financial counselor or planner. Even if you’re able to stay in your current home, it’s still important to understand all your options in case something changes in the future.

Housing as a Component of Aging Well

Housing decisions made today can shape how securely we age tomorrow. By thinking ahead, staying informed, and planning with care, individuals and families can create living situations that support independence, health and peace of mind well into the future.

Whether that means modifying a lifelong home, downsizing to something more manageable or relocating to be closer to support, what matters most is having the flexibility and foresight to choose what works best for your evolving needs.

Need help with housing, from understanding your needs to planning for the future? Benjamin Rose’s HUD-certified counselors can provide guidance to help make the process a little easier. Explore our services and contact us today!