Baby Boomer Series ~ A Tale of Two Women
This post was prompted by a recent visit to two relatives, each of whom is living in a popular retirement area. Both are 84-year-old widowed women. They both began living in their current homes when their husbands were alive, and now they are living alone. As I visited with each of them, I started to think that the choices we make in early retirement or even pre-retirement are going to impact us long after those fun-filled active retirement years, so it’s wise to think ahead when making those decisions.
One woman lives in a single-family home in a quiet neighborhood near shopping and amenities. Her neighbors are mainly young families with children; most of her time is spent inside her house except when she walks her small dog. She has a yard with nice plantings, a fish pond, and a pool and lanai. When she and her husband bought the property, they considered it easy maintenance compared to their larger home in the north, but now this house requires maintenance that the woman is not able to do. And although she is in a warm sunny locale and can accommodate visitors, she doesn’t have frequent company.
The other woman lives in an age-restricted community in a single family home. The community takes care of the exterior maintenance and a service is available to help with inside chores. She is close to many people her own age and can participate in a variety of activities. She has frequent visitors because friends and family enjoy the lifestyle as well as all the amenities that are available.
Neither situation is perfect, and people must decide what is best for them. Some never want to give up neighborhood living and will simply hire people to do the work; others would prefer to have it done for them. Some enjoy their solitude, while others enjoy the company of others. Either way, it's a big decision.
If you are thinking of downsizing and staying here in Connecticut, I can help you find your next home. If you are thinking of relocating to warmer climates, I can refer you to someone who will help you with your search.
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