If you’ve lived in the Chagrin Valley long enough to have a favorite sledding hill and a go-to spot for apple fritters (mine is Howard’s Apples), chances are you’ve also asked yourself: Do I stay in my home or is it time to consider a move?

As a real estate agent working here for the past 15+ years, I’ve helped many families with this big decision.

What Does “Aging in Place” Actually Mean?

The National Institute on Aging defines it as living in your home safely and independently, for as long as possible. Here in the Chagrin Valley, it means watching the deer cross your backyard at dusk and waving to the same neighbors you’ve known since your kids were in Kenston.

According to AARP, 90% of adults over 65 want to age in place. And the good news? Often with the right updates, it can be entirely doable. But it’s important to plan way ahead. I always tell clients: it’s better to plan for the “what if” before the “oh no.” A fall or health scare shouldn’t be the reason you start thinking about aging in place.

Making Your Home Work for You

Aging in place doesn’t have to mean installing hospital-grade equipment. It means making thoughtful modifications so your home serves you and you can reside safely in it. Consider:

• Zero-step entries (especially helpful during freezing Northeast Ohio winters)
• Creating a main-level bedroom if you don’t have one
• Walk-in showers and grab bars (yes, you can still make them look stylish)
• Better lighting, especially in century homes that can be dimly lit
• Smart home tech—voice-activated lights and security systems can be game-changers

Check out the AARP HomeFit Guide online…it’s a fantastic resource I recommend to clients all the time.

Or… Maybe It’s Time to Go

Sometimes, staying put isn’t the best plan. You and your family will decide between downsizing or moving to a retirement community. If you’re still in good health and quite active, but your home or yard is too much maintain or navigate, it may be time to find a smaller, one-floor house with a more manageable yard or even a maintenance-free condo. Luckily, there are many more options your Realtor can show you than there were a few years ago!

If you need additional care or support and want more social events, a retirement community could be a great fit. We are fortunate to have some excellent communities that offer independent living, built-in support and a vibrant social scene. Think of it as aging in style, not just in place. Choosing a retirement community doesn’t mean giving up independence. It means setting yourself up for convenience, community and peace of mind.

Bottom Line: You Have Options

Stay, go, or explore something in between—there’s no wrong answer, just the one that fits your life now and into the future. Whether that’s in your lifelong home or a beautiful new community, the key is to start the before the decision is urgent.

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This article was previously published by Realtor Mary Frances LaGanke in the April issue of the Spirit of Bainbridge