How 3D Homes Can Help Support Senior Living
3D homes can provide numerous benefits with the latest technology, including decreasing construction time. More so, 3D printers offer a fast and effective method of building, especially for senior living. Additionally, using this tech will allow seniors to help design their living spaces. And this means moving into aged care will cause minimal trauma as well.
3D Homes Helping Seniors With Homeownership
A recent study showed, by 2020, the homeownership rate among 65 and over increased to 80% and grew. Additionally, approximately 27.1 million owner-occupied households out of the 33.9 million total U.S. households of retirement age. This trend may, in part, attributes to more significant numbers of wealthy Baby Boomers entering the 65-and-over age bracket.
However, many older Americans are also active buyers, looking for homes that suit their lifestyle preferences late in life. Researchers ranked states and metros by the share of home purchase loans accounted for by homebuyers 65 years or older.
The population of Americans over age 65 will most likely double over the next three decades. And this can result in a 75 percent increase in the number of older adults who will need assisted living, nursing homes, and skilled nursing facilities.
Furthermore, they have a name for this population—fourth age residents, who will spend time in long-term care facilities. And those who suffer declines in well-being due to advanced age and the resulting loss of independence.
Supporting aging in place can save money for families, health systems, and the government. In addition, it can have health and emotional benefits for seniors and their loved ones compared to institutional care. Given that the demographic shift in the U.S. is leaning toward an increasingly older population, home modifications to cater to the needs of mature adults makes the most sense.
For aging seniors who cannot afford to move to a home that adapts to their needs, 3D printed houses can provide an affordable solution. In addition, 3D homes offers a tailored solution for people with special needs, such as aging adults and those with disabilities.
Inexpensive Retirement Home
A compelling reason why many seniors opt to age in place is the cost. Aging in place is the most economical solution. It’s a logical decision to stay, especially for those who own their homes. However, senior homeowners need to adapt their homes to fit their requirements to age comfortably. Some of these renovations will include widening doors and installing curb less showers, automatic lighting systems, and emergency alarms.
For those who prefer smaller places, selling their home might present difficulties because their dwellings can present older and less likely updated and maintained. But, if they can find a buyer for their house, they can use the money to purchase a senior-friendly move-in-ready home. Above all, that means they have a space to live independently. In this regard, 3D homes present a viable option as senior housing for several reasons.
Advantages of 3D Houses
A significant advantage of 3D printing is that the cost of building it is lower by at least $10 per square foot, according to VCHR, compared to a house constructed using lumber. In addition, home construction is faster than the traditional method. 3D houses can experience completion in under two days.
Hence, if a senior has found a buyer for their home, they can quickly move into another place. Another benefit of 3D homes is that the design can be flexible. For example, an open floor plan without many obstructions makes it easy to move from one room to another.
Those with mobility aids will find it seamless to navigate the house if there are no step-entries, wider doorways, and sound lighting systems. Specific colors and proper contrasting will also help with depth perception making it safer for the elderly.
Houses made with concrete as in 3D structures are also energy saving. Moreover, this is because concrete can retain temperature better than other building materials. Hence, heating and cooling costs will be below average, a welcome benefit for low-income individuals or households.
Additionally, a concrete home is sturdier and resistant to damage, making it safer for the elderly during storms or hurricanes. Furthermore, a 3D home is easier to maintain and is kinder to the environment.
If given a choice, the elderly will favor aging in place over institutional care. It is not only economical but also more comfortable for them. In addition to home modifications and adaptations to fit their abilities, 3D homes are alternatives for seniors. They are cheaper to build, cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and safe.
At some point in our lives, we will assume the role of caregiver to a loved one in our lives. You can be a loving caregiver and still practice the self-care you deserve.
