"This generation has already changed the way we view retirement accommodation which is now a far cry from the traditional four walls with three square meals a day and they are more active and often keep working for longer than their predecessors," says Cobus Odendaal, CEO of Lew Geffen Sotheby's International Realty in Johannesburg and Randburg.

"Most also want to stay in their homes for as long as possible but, because where we live defines how we live, the best way to ensure a happy life once the burden of work is done and dusted, is to think about what lies ahead, consider all eventualities and plan accordingly.

"This means taking the long view about the next property you buy and/or the renovations you do when the time comes to downsize."

Odendaal says that being prepared can save untold stress, both financial and emotional, further down the line.

"It makes sense to adapt our homes to mature-aged living whilst we are still spritely enough to do so; before it really needs to be done because by that stage it will be far more of an effort and inconvenience.

"And while it may not be possible for older adults to live independently forever, there are many changes that can be made to a home to make it safer and more functional so that they can remain in their own homes for longer."

1. Single or double story?

It might be hard to imagine now, but going up and down stairs multiple times a day can become challenging as we age so even if the home you love is double story, it should ideally have a bedroom and full bathroom on the ground level.

If this is not possible, consider installing an electric stairlift which will also provide a sense of security.

2. Create a safer exterior

Repair and replace uneven or damaged walkways and install motion sensor lighting to illuminate walkways at night. Consider building a shelf or placing a sturdy table next to the front and/or back doors where grocery bags, mail and packages can be set down and easily retrieved after unlocking the door.

3. Ease of entry and exit

Is there a flat, stable pathway to your front door that can be well-lit? Is there direct access to the house from the garage or is your parking bay close to your front door? If the house doesn't have at least one step-free entrance, think about how you might create one.

For areas where stairs are likely to remain, the steps themselves should be in good repair, with sturdy handrails on both sides, running the full length of the staircase.

4. Manoeuvrability in high-traffic living areas

With an eye to the future, the paths you take from the bedroom to the bathroom, to the kitchen, and out the front door should be clear from furniture and level changes and easy to navigate,

There should also be enough space to get through these areas without difficulty using a mobility aid such as a walker or wheelchair. Doorways are an important part of this equation, too and you can hire a contractor to widen them if necessary.

5. Door handles

Levers are usually easier to grip than round doorknobs, and they don't require a twisting motion and therefore less strength. They can also be especially helpful for people who have arthritis or other conditions that limit motion.

6. The kitchen is a priority

A lot of bending, reaching and lifting happens in the kitchen and these actions are likely to become harder as we age so it's a good idea to rethink your kitchen layout and storage heights.

And if the kitchen has space for a small table and chair, even better as you may prefer to sit and do food prep at a later stage. While you're at it, you may also want to change kitchen (and bathroom) cabinet knobs.

7. Don't neglect the floor

Consider replacing existing flooring with something that is non-slip and if you prefer carpet, make sure it's a short pile to ensure easier movement. The ideal material for senior citizens should be soft, ensuring bones don't break and bruise easily and at the same time, the floors should be easy to clean.

Opt for floor consistency throughout the home - the fewer and smoother the transitions across flooring surfaces, the better. And rugs can be a trip hazard so consider whether they are really necessary.

8. Brighter lighting

Dimly or badly-lit rooms can present a challenge in our older years as our eyesight weakens so look at upgrading the lighting in the most used areas and also replacing low wattage light bulbs with brighter and longer-lasting ones as changing bulbs at a height can be a risky business. One simple modification you can make to your home that isn't too pricey is switching to LED bulbs.

9. Ditch the traditional bathtub

The bathroom is a room where accidents can - and often do - happen so if you are looking to age in place also definitely consider home modifications for the bathroom, particularly the bathtub. One option is to replace the tub with a walk-in shower, which provides much easier (and safer) entry and exit and make it big enough to include a built-in shelf for seating or to fit in a mobile shower chair.

"By implementing even a few home modifications that support aging in place, you'll be able to maintain your independence for longer, and, in the long run, may well save a substantial amount of money on senior living," says Odendaal.

Property 24