The idea of an accessory unit or backyard housing has been around for quite awhile. It is a viable housing option for young people returning home or for seniors who want to be closer to their extended families. Zoning ordinances have relaxed a little and this particular trend continues to gain momentum. Commonly known as the “Granny Flat” or the “Mother-in-Law Apartment,” an accessory unit allows a young adult or a senior live in a place of their own. A backyard home allows a sense of independence and freedom that would not be possible under other circumstances. An accessory unit provides living quarters with separate cooking, sleeping and bathroom facilities, but are attached or detached from the primary family home. Everyone has their own space, which has become a very important concept these days, while enjoying the benefits of being part of an extended family.
A number of housing options are now available for the adventuresome senior, but backyard housing has a special place in my heart. Studies show that people place great value on their independence, and living alone is a price that they are willing to pay. We have gone a bit overboard with the independence thing (not that this is necessarily a bad thing), but when it comes down to it, at the end of the day it is nice to be close to someone who cares about you. Many seniors actively resist leaving their own place to move in with family or into any care giving situation. Despite this resistance most are okay with being close, as long as it isn’t too close or isn’t all of the time. Backyard housing may be the solution. With backyard housing you can be as independent as you want but you will always have someone nearby who cares about you. Kelly Greene (The Wall Street Journal: Saturday/Sunday, March 17-18, 2012) wrote about alternate housing options for seniors. One of the options she mentioned was a MedCottage. I found this concept appealing and decided to read more about it. A MedCottage is a small backyard housing unit with a “smart home” design. The house is not only barrier free, but is outfitted so that the person living there can be monitored on-line. Think about how you would like to experience the comforts of a home, proximity to loved ones, and the technology that can make it possible. I think the idea of a “smart home” is rather exciting. In other words your backyard abode can be more than just a temporary place to live, and is less expensive than doing extensive remodeling in order to make the primary home senior friendly. The MedCottage is designed with special features to promote independence while providing a safe environment. MedCottage is being promoted as a unique and less expensive alternative to living in a care facility. It is comforting to know that developers are starting to offer housing options designed to meet the changing needs of today’s seniors. I am hoping that this idea catches on because I think I could live it.
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Posted by: Elin | July 26, 2012 at 09:52 PM