THE VIEW FROM HERE

My Ever-Changing New Normal

Age-related changes require constant adaptation

BY DORIS CARNEVALI, AGE 99

It makes sense that if one can no longer do something, one changes what one tries to do, or at least how it’s done. But both normal age-related changes (ARCs) and our silent adaptations move into our lives so gradually that we tend not to see the pattern. As I look back on my earlier lifestyle and compare it to the one I have as I approach the century mark, I’m amazed at the simplification that has occurred. Both my life and home environment now are less cluttered. What remains is still complicated and involves incredibly demanding, detailed attention, but it’s doable (for now). What I wear is dictated by what I can manipulate. For me at 99 it means no buttons, zippers, snaps, Velcro tabs, hooks and eyes, or things requiring tying knots. Difficulties with donning clothing involves even greater detail as ARCs continue to progress. Now, the diameter of neck and armhole openings dictate what my more-rigid arm joints can get into. With multiple layers of tops, at least some need to be slippery.

Pulling a rough texture item over an already donned rough texture is really tricky. Sock tops need to be large, but not sloppy, and stretchy enough for weak fingers to pull them over the heel and ankle; forget trying to manage long stretchy pantyhose. Waistlines of any clothing item need to be softly stretchy, with little resistance to weak hands and fingers. Shoes now must be slip-ons (preferably without the use of a shoehorn), but once on must dependably fit and stay in place whatever my feet do. Varying heel heights also are a no-no as they disrupt balance. Other than these demands, there’s free choice with clothing. Any sense of the environment crowding into daily living became quietly but increasingly discomfiting. Somehow symmetry and openness brought serenity. So, using a one small step-at-a- time approach, small areas were cleared. What emerged was more opportunity to admire the lines of the furniture and other elements that my husband had so artfully created and built. The grains of the wood glowed and the detail re-emerged. When items sitting on surfaces were thinned out, each one could be appreciated more. And, by changing them with the seasons, or just to be introducing change for change itself, they were newly appreciated. (Note: Dreaded, depressing monotony is constantly and knowingly foiled by ongoing little changes.) I’m even “As I look back on my earlier lifestyle and growing five tiny ferns of different varieties. They remind me about being “green and growing,” and they’re the right size for me to handle and move compare it to the one I about to different spots. have as I approach the Constant use of the mantras “One thing at a century mark, I’m amazed at the simplification that has occurred. ” time!” and “Finish what you start” as I’m tackling a project makes me feel not only motivated but proud of what I’m doing—and that’s no small matter these days. The sense of control of small matters and satisfaction with one little job well done feels good. The results from these efforts offer constant visual reminders of mini-successes. This story was previously posted on the Engaging with Aging blog.

Doris Carnevali, emeritus faculty of the University of Washington School of Nursing, is author of several books on nursing care planning. In 2017, she launched her blog Engaging with Aging, offering tips and insights on adapting to changes as we age. To date, her blog has reached viewers in at least 109 countries.

REAL ESTATE Q & A FOR EVERY SEASON OF LIFE

BY REBECCA BOMANN OF SASH

QWhat is the reason for having an Open House these days? They say most buyers search for homes and review photos online, do a tour with their broker, and send offers by email. Is an Open House still part of the selling process like it was years ago? Should we have one?

AIt’s true! The online real estate marketplace offers an Open House 24/7, providing buyers virtual tours, color photos, and detailed information on thousands of properties at the swipe of a finger or click of a mouse.

Yet, even with this incredible technology, there is still value in hosting an Open House when your home is listed for sale.

A few reasons: First, it is an opportunity for neighbors to tour your home. They will be the most ? enthusiastic evangelists to their own family and friends to buy in your neighborhood. Second, there are many “unrepresented” buyers who have not yet hired an agent, but who tour homes as they prepare to buy. The Open House includes these people in your potential buyer pool. Third, as potential buyers walk through an Open House, they provide valuable, live feedback to your listing agent about the home and property. This could be very helpful during sale negotiations. Finally, advertising an Open House in the online real estate marketplace actually boosts your home’s profile. In the algorithms of smartphone real estate apps, posting an Open House makes your home stand out. Our recommendation: Have your agent host an Open House, and in so doing, grow your potential buyer pool. Good luck!

QReal estate agents say that homes are sold over the Internet now, with digital offers and signing through smartphones. Our sweet Nana, who is over 90, doesn’t have a computer or a smart phone. When she sells her home, will she be expected to do her signing and closing steps online?

AYour Nana can definitely sell her home without ever touching a smartphone or clicking a mouse. Real estate brokers can cater the entire home selling process around their client’s individual preferences. While a tech-savvy buyer or seller may prefer the speed and convenience of digital transactions, there are plenty of folks who still prefer to sign their contracts printed on paper, with a pen. When your Nana chooses a real estate broker, let them know that they will need to print the transaction documents and bring them to her for DO YOU HAVE A REAL ESTATE signing. This should QUESTION FOR US? SEND IT TO: QUESTIONS@SASHREALTY.COM be no problem for the broker to coordinate. Signing in person, instead of digitally, also has no impact on the ability to receive multiple offers, and to enjoy a successful home sale outcome! Rebecca Bomann is Founder and CEO of SASH Services, and Designated Broker of SASH Realty. With a background in social work and elder care, Bomann created SASH to provide real estate services tailored for clients’ unique needs. Since 2005, SASH has served clients of all ages, with specialized home sale services for older adults and their families.

CONTACT US AT SASH TO LEARN MORE! www.sashservices.com · www.sashrealty.com

Exceptional Service from Start to Sold Serving the Greater Puget Sound Area Since 2005