If you have older relatives that want to be closer to you, but not necessarily under the same roof, you may be interested in looking into “granny pods.” A housing alternative for aging adults, these micro-houses are designed with accessibility in mind, but they’re small enough to fit in a backyard.
A growing number of companies are beginning to specially design these living spaces for older folks, such as Jamaica Cottage Shop and MED Cottage both based in the US. Depending on the size and the features included, granny pods can range in price from less than $50,000 (USD) to nearly $250,000. So depending on your loved one’s specific needs and your family budget, you can make it as frills-free or fancy as your hearts desire.
We know what you’re thinking: How can I get past the name of this housing option? Well, we did some research, and despite the name “granny pods,” some of these dwellings actually look incredibly chic.
We don’t know about you, but we wouldn’t mind living in a home like this!
Most of us are already familiar with granny flats, small demountable attachments for the back of your home. Granny pods are something of a modern update.
It’s worth noting that this option is definitely not for everyone. Not every family would benefit from being in close proximity. On top of that, some elderly people have specific needs that simply couldn’t be filled by a house of that nature.
But if you are considering a granny pod as an option for a loved one in your life, experts recommend that you look for one with basic necessities like a bedroom on the main floor, full bath with a raised toilet, a walk-in shower, grab bars, and slip-resistant flooring. Another great addition might be storage areas that are easily accessible without the use of a ladder.
It’s also important to check in with your local council and check to make sure these dwellings are allowed in your area.
Happy (tiny?) home-hunting!
This story was originally published Woman’s World
