Family care is close at hand
‘Micro dwellings’ offer loved ones the security and comfort of being nearby – but also their independence
WHEN elderly relatives begin to struggle a little while living alone, our thoughts turn to what the next step is and how we can help. The ideal solution is to have them close, but allow them to retain as much independence as possible.
As close as any family is, having space is important – for all members of the family – and it means previously congenial relationships aren’t strained.
A recent solution has been many names, from granny pod to granny annexe to accessory dwelling unit, but it’s essentially a tiny house in the garden, where an elderly person or someone who might have problems otherwise living independently can take care of themselves, with a little supervision from a distance.
They can have what we all enjoy – their own space – while knowing that care and company is close at hand.
These small homes can be a preferable option for families who would rather not explore the care home route.
They have a living area, kitchenette, bathroom and bedroom. Some even have verandas and even greenhouses to keep the green-finger gran or grandad busy.
The tends to be built from kits, but can be modified for any mobility issues.
They can also be fitted with wider doors for wheelchairs, floors that can help prevent falls, and rounded worktops.
Unlike garden offices these structures do need planning permission because they’ll be lived in. Of course the investment can be made for many reasons.
These can work just as well as guest accommodation. It may be that you would like to downsize the main house but need to accommodate family or friends from time to time.
The potential site would need to be surveyed to see whether it can be connected to the main house’s plumbing, water and power supplies.
There could be a temptation to design something from scratch but manufacturers have experience in getting the proportions just right, no matter if it’s a real micro dwelling or something slightly more spacious.
It could be that the situation is a little more urgent, then employing a company who can advise, supply and construct, while including any necessary adaptions and even flooring.