Short answer: in the UK, staying put with adaptations suits people who like their home and area and whose home can be changed to fit their needs. Moving suits people whose home is too large, too costly or too hard to adapt, or who want to be closer to family or services. Compare both honestly, and ask for an assessment before deciding.
Why adapting a home can work
Many people want to stay in the home and community they know. Adaptations can make that possible: grab rails, a stairlift, a level-access shower, better lighting or ramps. Your local council can arrange an assessment of your needs, which you can find through GOV.UK.
Help with the cost
In England, a means-tested Disabled Facilities Grant can help pay for larger adaptations. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have different schemes. Age UK gives free information and advice, and your council can explain what is available locally.
When moving may make more sense
- The home is too large or costly to run and maintain.
- Stairs or the layout cannot be adapted well.
- You are far from family, friends or services.
- You would like retirement housing with support, a bungalow or a smaller home.
- You want to release money from your property. If so, our guide to downsizing or equity release sets out the questions to ask, and regulated advice is essential.
Questions to ask yourself
- How well does the home suit my needs now, and in five years?
- What would adaptations cost, and how disruptive would they be?
- What would a move cost, including stamp duty and removal costs?
- How important is the area, my neighbours and being near family?
- What would I look for in a smaller home? See what to look for in a smaller home.
When the answer is to move
If you decide to move, start early. Our downsizing guide and checklist covers the steps, and our guide to when is the right time to downsize helps with timing.
Where Chayce fits
Chayce provides one coordinator for sorting, packing, a fully insured removal and settling in, across the UK. We do not give care, legal or financial advice. A Discovery Consultation, £150, gives you a plan, timeline and budget, whichever way you decide. To talk it over, get in touch.
