DC Housing News — April 2024

By Beacon Staff
Posted on April 08, 2024

Inspīr Embassy Row coming to D.C. Maplewood Senior Living is bringing a new 174-unit luxury senior living residence to Dupont Circle in Washington, D.C. Inspīr Embassy Row will have amenities such as an indoor heated saltwater pool, steam room, sauna, salt room, movie theater, salon and spa. With a prime location on Massachusetts Avenue at the end of Embassy Row, the eight-story... READ MORE

Consider community with all levels of care

By Jim Miller
Posted on April 03, 2024

Dear Savvy Senior: Can you help me identify some good senior living communities that offer all levels of housing and care, from independent living to nursing home care? I am in my late 70s and know I need to downsize from my current house, but I want my next move to be my last. —One Move Mary Dear Mary, If you want your next move to be your last, an all-inclusive retirement... READ MORE

Watering right saves money (and plants)

By Jessica Damiano
Posted on March 25, 2024

Until I installed soaker hoses throughout my vegetable beds last year, I’d always watered my plants by hand, which over the years had become tiresome. Standing outside holding a garden hose wasn’t exactly my idea of a good time, but it directs water precisely to the soil above roots, making sure it lands where it’s needed. That eliminates waste, and goes a long way toward... READ MORE

How to declutter if moving or downsizing

By Dawn Wotapka
Posted on March 22, 2024

Spring — and spring cleaning — are now upon us. With the changing seasons, you may be changing seasons of your life, too, including looking for ways to declutter your home, especially if you’re moving or downsizing. Once he retired, Jakob Miller finally had the time and energy to organize his three-bedroom home. “As I entered my golden years, I realized that I needed to... READ MORE

In-home care can help you age in place

By Heidi Godman
Posted on March 21, 2024

Most people want to age in place and live at home for as long as possible: According to an AARP survey, three-quarters of people 50 and older are hoping to do so. But managing this successfully may mean hiring outside help, such as health aides who can assist you with daily activities that have become challenging. You might wonder when exactly it will make sense to seek that service.... READ MORE

Finding the right retirement community

By Daniel Bortz
Posted on March 20, 2024

Many older adults decide that a retirement community will be their next move. However, retirement communities can vary significantly in terms of their housing options, amenities, healthcare services and the lifestyle that they offer. Here are seven steps to help find the right retirement community for you. 1. Choose a location for the retirement community search Step one is to figure... READ MORE

Never too early to develop your care plan

By Liz Weston
Posted on January 25, 2024

At some point, most older people will need help getting through the day. Someone turning 65 today has a 70% chance of eventually requiring assistance with basic living activities, such as bathing, dressing and using the toilet, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. That’s the grim reality. Even grimmer is that Medicare typically doesn’t pay for such... READ MORE

Smart home devices boost aging in place

By Jim Miller
Posted on January 19, 2024

Dear Savvy Senior, I’ve been talking to my mobility challenged mother, who lives alone, about automating her house with some smart home products to make it more convenient. She’s very interested, but we’d like to get your opinion as to which types of smart devices are most helpful for older adults aging in place. —Searching Daughter Dear Searching, If your mother is game,... READ MORE

Three steps to help downsize in a hurry

By Liz Weston
Posted on January 11, 2024

Ideally, you’d spend months or even years carefully purging excess belongings — but life may have other plans. Maybe you or someone you love has a health crisis and needs to move into assisted living. Or perhaps someone has died, and their home has to be cleared before next month’s rent is due. Maybe you’re just moving soon and want to significantly lighten your load. If you... READ MORE

Some pros and cons of retiring abroad

By Becca Van Sambeck
Posted on January 10, 2024

Retirement is one of the most exciting phases in a person’s life, and for good reason: Suddenly, for the first time in decades — or maybe even ever — all your time is yours. It’s an opportunity to try different things, embark on new adventures, or simply relax for once. But where should you spend your time embracing the luxury of retirement? While plenty of people opt to stay... READ MORE