“Do not go gentle into that good night, Old age should burn and rage at close of day. Rage, rage against the dying of the light.” Dylan Thomas
“Of course I’m happy here. If you make your mind up to be happy, you will be happy.” Helen Ernstes after selling her Irvington home and moving into assisted living in Zionsville when she was in her mid nineties.
“None are so old as those who have outlived enthusiasm.” Henry David Thoreau
“They call them ‘The Golden Years.’ I say, “Bleep the Golden Years.” My niece Dee
“I do not like being eighty years old, but ven I considair zee alternative . . .” Maurice Chevalier
“Patience!” Elisabeth Good at age 99
Which of those statements apply to you? You think you’re too young to worry? Often we are too soon old, too late smart. We kick the can into tomorrowland, and, alas, the tomorrow of old age creeps upon us before we are prepared. The aging process is a slippery slope.
Since I’m no longer a Realtor, I can write about real estate since no one will suspect me of trying to profit from it. The bond that we have with our homes can become a bondage. Some people cheerfully accept and embrace change. However, many are unhappy for the rest of their lives after they relinquish their homes. Bill says that they want things to be the way they used to be. Also, they are no longer in control of their lives and become petulant or depressed.
Refusing to follow the advice of financial advisors, people live like the grasshoppers of summer, saving nothing for winter. Sometimes they give money to their children rather than putting their own economic well being first. They take out equity loans or second mortgages that lessen their homes’ value.
Gradually, they no longer have the motivation, energy, heath or money to make needed repairs, freshen the décor or keep their houses neat and clean.
They live on in a deteriorating situation. Cleanliness is next to godliness. One lady’s house reeked so strongly of cat that I asked Bill when I got home, “Do you think I smell like cat?” “No.” A few minutes later, he said, “Maybe you should take a shower.” I declined that listing!
It comes down to one essential question: Whom do you want to be in charge? Some stubborn people manage to stay in their homes against the odds, but many don’t. Their children who are growing old themselves must make the decisions, and their choices may not be happy ones.
Don’t be a grasshopper and wait till it’s too late. Start planning by age 60.
• Ask a neighborhood Realtor to do a market analysis. Be realistic about your home’s worth. Price determines how rapidly a home will sell. Anything will sell if priced correctly. I once sold two ratty little houses on a big lot for $15,000. A neighbor said that one of them had been a chicken coop. Have the Realtor point out necessary maintenance. Update the report yearly so that you always know where you stand. Keep your house in good condition.
• Consult a reputable financial advisor. Consult an attorney to get your legal affairs in order.
• Costs are skyrocketing. Get the best supplemental insurance that you can afford.
• When you are 70 start looking at various housing and care options.
• Talk with your spouse or if single with a trusted relative or friend.
• If you don’t want to leave your home, find out how much help will cost. (You’re going to be shocked!)
I know what would upset me most: not having a stove to cook on. And I haven’t even mentioned parting with your automobile which is sometimes as wrenching as leaving your home! wclarke@comcast.net