Quote Originally Posted by KayLR View Post

The new rental for us (we like renting for the same reasons stated by Tradd) is a small 55+ community just outside city limits in a small (I think 10 houses/duplexes) loop with woods all around. It's quiet and lovely. We have one of the few single-family homes. It has a small front yard and a nice patio. We have high fencing because there is a herd of deer. Good thing because I have roses inside the patio! I'm growing herbs and tomatoes in pots.

The home is just the right size. We have a small guest room and another extra bedroom which I use as my sewing and embroidery studio. The halls are wide and would accommodate a walker or wheelchair; the master bath as well. It's single level. I've met a few of the neighbors who are friendly and fun-loving, interesting folks. I think we will be here for a while. The M-O is to keep my body well and moving so I don't have to worry about all those accommodations for a long time.
That sounds ideal. The retirement places I'm familiar with around here are pretty austere and crowded together. Assuming my facilities were in order, a little open space and greenery would be something I would miss.

There are a lot of pay or free services for seniors wanting to live in their traditional home or a downsized version. My neighbors are in their 90's and get along just fine with a little help. We're pretty much in the 50's burbs but just a few blocks from banks, shopping, post office etc. I think one of the things that keeps the husband going is puttering around in the yard and doing some gardening. They are no doubt exceptional, but things don't necessarily end up in some sort of long term debilitating decline. I guess playing the odds one way or the other is the hard part of planning. My current thinking is, they'll have to haul me out of here on a stretcher, but that's currently up for review.

Anyone see and appreciate the animated movie, "Up". It's a fantasy story about an old widower who refuses to leave his home in the city with modern construction trying to raise it for apartments. It's a heartwarming story.