"Nothing is 100% certain, but we are comfortable with this decision", said Garrett Hughes, who lives in suburban Rochester, New York, regarding his choice to spend his later years in his current home with his wife, Anna Marie.

According to a survey by the American Association of Retired Persons, about 75% of people over 50 wish to age in place, similar to the Hughes family. This trend stems from the "silver tsunami" phenomenon. The average life expectancy for Americans currently reaches 79 years, leading to a demand for home care instead of moving to medical facilities.

Garrett and Anna Marie Hughes, both in their 80s, in Rochester, New York. *Photo: WSJ*

Nursing home costs currently range from 50,000-100,000 USD annually. In Rochester, this figure is 84,000 USD a year. The government health insurance system (Medicaid) covers nursing homes, but home care services are often subject to cuts. This leaves more than 600,000 eligible individuals waiting for assistance.

However, aging in place requires thorough preparation. A survey by the Nationwide Retirement Institute revealed that while 73% of respondents wished to stay home, only 37% had made financial plans, and 22% had undertaken home renovations. Most homes in the US have stairs, narrow doorways, and slippery floors, which are unsuitable for older adults.

The Hughes family decided to renovate their home themselves to avoid moving. Initially, they considered installing stair lifts and elevators, but realized these only addressed mobility issues. After their children and grandchildren declined to move in with them, Garrett used 3D software to design an extension for their house, including a main bedroom on the first floor and a south-facing sloped roof for solar panels. To cover the costs, they used a 300,000 USD mortgage loan.

Melanie Towle, owner of an interior design company, stated that a basic bathroom renovation project costs at least 45,000 USD. Many clients are willing to spend 150,000-250,000 USD on premium, multi-functional fixtures instead of standard medical grab bars to maintain the home's aesthetic.

The needs of the older generation are driving the growth of the home care service industry. More contractors are obtaining certifications for designing spaces for older adults. Smart home technology is also widely adopted. In Florida, paid services, from water delivery to in-home medical arrangements, are developing. Ryan Frederick, an author, noted that a new industry is emerging to support older adults living at home.

Garrett and Anna Marie Hughes in their home in suburban Rochester, New York. *Photo: WSJ*

Despite renovating their home, expert Frederick advises older adults to have a contingency plan, as health can change unexpectedly. Anna Marie shared her concern about whether they would live long enough to benefit from this renovation investment.

As a contingency, the Hughes family has prepared a room for a caregiver and designed a bedroom large enough for a medical bed. They also hire a gardener periodically and purchased a robotic lawnmower to reduce household chores.

By Bao Nhien (According to WSJ, The Hill, Yahoo)