WHEN you are young your priorities are different and one of your concerns is ‘where am I going to live? Stay with parents, share with mates, get somewhere of my own. It may not be a choice. Obviously a lot depends on your income. Another concern is renting or ‘saving enough to get on the property ladder’ - if that is possible these days?

As we go through life our needs may change and we may need a larger house to accommodate a family and hobbies such as sport and gardening.

However, as we get older, other considerations may manifest themselves. The kids may have fled the nest and may have families of their own. They may have moved away for employment opportunities or they may be close by and want ‘baby sitters’ while they work to pay the mortgage or rent.

Your housing needs may change – but not the fond memories of what went on over the years in your family home. You do not want to move but your house is now too large for you to cope with any more; you want to ‘downsize’ but don’t know how to approach this ; you or your partner are ill or disabled and the house needs adaptations or equipment to help you to cope but who do I contact ? You cannot afford your rent or utility bills on your pension so have to cut back on heating and food. What about sharing your home – but who helps with this to ensure my safety ? Talking of safety – what if you feel unsafe in your home because of rowdy neighbours or you worry about being burgled or having a fall and unable to get help.

Just a few very real scenarios. What help is there and how do I get it ?

Older people are not all computer literate or indeed can afford one with its on-going costs.

As we get older, our housing needs may change and this year Andover and District Older People’s Forum have chosen to organise an ‘Ideal Home Exhibition’ for older people with speakers and exhibition information displays to help attendees consider their options and the help and advice available to them.

Our event will be on Thursday 3rd October 2024 in Andover Community Church so look out for posters and notices and come along to find out more.

It is interesting that our new government has a flagship policy of building more housing - but possibly reducing the requirements on the house builders? I wonder if they consider ‘Homes for Life’ and bungalows and apartments suitable for older people in this as well as family homes. It could free up existing housing for families and make the best use of space and available accommodation?

Mollie Antrobus

Publicity and events organiser on behalf of Andover and District Older People’s Forum

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