A common option for aging in place is moving in with family – while still maintaining independence. How do you do this? Well, those with enough room may be able to renovate a basement or garage as separate living quarters. However, an increasingly popular option is a tiny home that can be installed in the backyard, often called a “granny pod” or “in-law apartment.” This is an attractive option because it can provide elderly relatives with the independence they really want (along with their own garden, etc.) while allowing family to keep a close eye on them – and improving property value! Here’s what you should know about these structures and what they offer.

Main Features

So what exactly do these “granny pods” look like if they’re just tiny homes? Well, they tend to be around 800 square feet of living space, although this can vary depending on how much space is available and what people really want. Typical rooms include a bedroom, living room space (often combined with a dining room and entryway, although this can vary too), kitchenette with basic cooking options, and of course, some storage space.

What about utilities? Well, utilities can be set up based on the individual needs of these tiny homes. However, most can easily be connected to the primary dwelling for water, electricity, sewage, and other important utilities so that everything can be shared.

These tiny homes can easily come with welcome additions like porches to sit out in the sun, small gardens, windows with views of the yard or landscape, and much more!

Accessibility and Aging in Place

One useful thing about granny pods is that there are many ways to customize them based on accessibility options. Bathrooms can be created with easy-access showers and seats for safety. Floors can be designed to be low impact, so there’s less chance of falls doing damage. There are many types of modifications that can be made!

So what exactly do these “granny pods” look like if they’re just tiny homes? Well, they tend to be around 800 square feet of living space, although this can vary depending on how much space is available and what people really want.

Smart devices and other technology can also help elderly relatives stay in contact with those in the main dwelling. From smart speakers and displays for video calls to smart security cams and alert bracelets, there are plenty of options for communication and notifications if something is wrong, while still encouraging independence.

Prefabrication and Construction Options

So how do you get one of these adjacent homes? Well, one option is to purchase a prefabricated home from a reliable supplier. Then you simply have the foundation built, put the home in, and connect it to utilities.

However, prefabricated homes may not have all the options that you want – or you may already have a large shed or similar structure that you can transform into a tiny backyard home. In this case, Quality Craftsmen can help you plan a full remodel or a new structure that has exactly what you and your relatives want.

Do you have further questions about aging in place? We are the top local choice for aging in place remodeling projects in the East Cobb area. Contact Quality Craftsmen today to talk about the details, get a quote, and much more!