Hawaii Kai Lifestyle Supports Aging in Place

Hawaii has one of the largest senior populations of any state, and no wonder, with its good weather, possibilities for an active lifestyle, and acceptance of multi-generational/supportive housing choices. Those of us in the real estate field have worked to let seniors "age in place" for years, but the concept is only now becoming mainstream in the rest of the country. Hawaii Kai, because of the variety of housing offered there, and the proximity of services from the library to Costco, offers a beautiful and comfortable community to age in place.

The idea basically means that seniors modify their homes to make them more user-friendly as they age. There is now a National Aging in Place Week, Oct. 11-16 this year. Redesign can mean everything from ramps to replace stairs to the front door, to widening doorways for wheelchairs, to moving cabinets and knobs and electricl outlets down to hand-level for someone in a wheelchair. Safety is a primary consideration, because the decrease in agility and hand-eye coordination which comes as we age can create problems if handrails or shower bars are loose, or carpet is puckered. Universal Design is the term now used for the changes, because all ages can benefit from the modifications.

The National Aging in Place Council has formed, a network of professionals from the private, public and non-profit sectors who can help retirees plan for their housing needs. This web site is a senior support network. NAIPC was founded on the belief that an overwhelming majority of older Americans want to remain in their homes for as long as possible, but lack awareness of home and community-based services that make independent living possible. There is not a local chapter in Hawaii as yet, but they will help you form one.

While many retirees might have considered moving in earlier years, the economic downturn and loss of wealth of the baby boomer generation has certainly given impetus to the acceptance of staying put. The baby boomers now reaching retirement age tend to be healthier and more independent than previous generations, and are not ready to give up home ownership when they retire. As a Realtor, I support this lifestyle decision, and will help seniors in any way I can to find the resources and means to stay in their homes in Hawaii Kai, should they choose.

Our Hawaii Kai community is closely-knit, convenient, and loaded with amenities. Call or email me today for information on how you can become part of Hawaii Kai.