There is a reason so many of us choose to live in the Bay of Plenty. The coastal walks, warmer climate and relaxed lifestyle make it a great place to live, particularly as we get older.
For many people, staying in their own home for as long as possible is the preferred option. Moving into a retirement village is not necessarily the next step once you reach a certain age. More people are thinking about how they can adapt their existing home so they can continue living independently, safely and comfortably.
Tauranga is also changing to support this. Tauranga was the first city in New Zealand to be recognised as an Age-friendly City, with a focus on making our neighbourhoods, transport, public spaces and services more accessible as our population ages.
But there is another part of the picture to consider. Is your own home going to work for you in the years ahead?
Future-proofing does not necessarily mean undertaking major renovations. There are many relatively simple changes that can make a home easier and safer to live in. Lever-style door handles and taps are easier to use than traditional round handles, while good lighting in hallways, entrances and stairways can make a real difference. In the kitchen, moving frequently used items to an easy-to-reach height can also reduce unnecessary bending and stretching.
The bathroom is another area worth considering. A shower with a level entry is much easier to use than a shower over a bath, particularly if mobility becomes more difficult. Grab rails can also be incorporated in a way that looks like part of the bathroom rather than an addition made for medical reasons.
Outside, gardens and sections can become more difficult to manage over time. This doesn't mean giving up gardening, but perhaps changing the way the garden works. Raised garden beds, easier-care planting and paved areas can reduce the amount of maintenance while still giving you a garden to enjoy.
These changes are not just about safety. They are about making your home work for you for longer and allowing you to remain part of the neighbourhood and community you know.
Of course, sometimes the house itself is the problem. Stairs, a steep section, too much maintenance or a layout that no longer suits your needs can make staying put difficult. In that situation, moving to a more suitable home may be the better option.
The important thing is to think about these things before you have to make a decision. Whether that means making a few changes to your current home or looking at what else is available, planning ahead gives you more choices.
As a 50+ Property Consultant, I spend a lot of time helping people look at their options for easier living in Tauranga. Sometimes the answer is staying exactly where you are with a few changes. Sometimes it is finding a home that is better suited to the next stage of life.