Getting old isn’t easy. Neither is supporting your ageing parents as they enter their twilight years but there are ways to make it more manageable and to relieve the stresses that the thankless tasks bring with them – a garden annexe being one of them.
We have put together a list of what we consider the top ten reasons to choose a garden annexe and how it will help your ageing parents. Of course, there are more and different families benefit in different ways. We hope this list will give you something to think about as you make the garden annexe life choice for those who matter so much to you.
- Proximity to Family
One of the most significant benefits of a garden annexe is the proximity it offers to your own family home.
Having parents close to you means you can easily check in on them, ensuring their well-being and equally, they can call your way should they need to.
This closeness can bring strong family connections, allowing for more frequent interactions and shared activities, which can be incredibly rewarding for you, your children, your parents and the family as a whole. - Independence and Privacy
A garden annexe provides the perfect balance between independence and closeness.
Your parents can enjoy their private space, maintaining a sense of autonomy while still being near enough for support when needed.
Many of our customers say that their parents certainly don’t need additional external support but they benefit from having family so close when it matters. This arrangement respects their desire for privacy and dignity, allowing them to live independently without feeling isolated. - Cost Savings
Building a garden annexe can be a more cost-effective solution compared to other housing options like care homes, assisted living facilities or extensions to your existing home.
The initial investment is often lower, and there are no ongoing fees. There are also practical savings to consider too – when you have your parents nearby it can reduce travel expenses and the need for external caregiving services. - Personalised Care
With your parents living in a garden annexe, you can tailor the level of care they receive to their specific needs.
All needs are different. Some parents may require help with daily activities and others will only need occasional assistance.
Either way, you can provide support that is often more attentive and compassionate than what might be available from a third party. - Enhanced Safety
Safety is no doubt a paramount concern for elderly parents. A garden annexe allows you to create a secure environment that suits their needs.
Safety features such as grab bars and non-slip flooring can easily be installed. Being nearby also means you can respond quickly to any problems if they were to arise – this will provide peace of mind for both you and your parents. - Emotional Well-being
Ageing parents often experience loneliness and isolation, which can impact their emotional well-being. Living close to family in a garden annexe can significantly improve their mental health.
Regular social interactions are so important so being able to knock on the door as often as you like, make the most of family gatherings, and benefit from the presence of loved ones will all alleviate feelings of loneliness, contributing to a happier and more fulfilling life. - Convenience
Put simply, having your parents in a garden annexe offers convenience. Daily visits, meal sharing, and spontaneous activities become so much easier.
You can effortlessly support them, such as coordinating their appointments, medication schedules, and other needs without the logistical challenges associated with long-distance caregiving.
This convenience makes the entire process smoother and less stressful for all involved. - Customisable Space
A garden annexe from iHus is designed to meet the specific needs and preferences of your parents.
Together, you can choose the layout, interior design, and amenities that will make their living space comfortable and enjoyable.
This level of customisation ensures that their new home feels personal and welcoming. - Increased Property Value
Investing in a garden annexe can also add value to your property. It’s an attractive feature for future buyers who might see it as a versatile space for their own parents, older children, guests, or even as a home office.
There’s no surprise that RightMove said that ‘houses for sale with an annexe’ was one of the most increased search terms on its platform.
While providing a solution for your ageing parents, you’re also making a smart investment in your property’s future value. - Strengthening Family Bonds
Finally in our list, something that words can be difficult to describe – a garden annexe can significantly strengthen family bonds.
The ease of spending quality time together in your day-to-day life as well as celebrating milestones and special occasions fosters a closer family relationship.
These strengthened bonds create a nurturing and loving environment, enriching the lives of all generations.
Support with Sincerity from iHus
We have supported over 500 families build garden annexes over the years and we have seen so many improvements to the lives of those who have been impacted by their builds.
That’s why we consider ourselves the garden annexe experts. We’re here to help you and your family with the decisions you need to make as your parents get into their older years. We can provide the advice you need from the learnings of those who have already gone down the garden annexe path.
Get in touch with our team today and we’ll be delighted to help you.
