More than 75% of older Americans say they want to “age in place,” or live in their home for as long as possible. Sounds reasonable. But 40% have doubts about whether that’s possible, according to a survey by AARP.

For many, financial constraints will force them to downsize, relocate to a less expensive city or state or move in with family or into an independent retirement or assisted living community.

Money issues such as the cost of age-proofing a home, the price of in-home care, even debt owed on mortgages, car loans and credit cards can all conspire to obliterate dreams of living at home indefinitely.

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

“The most important thing is to think through the finances in advance and not bury your head in the sand,” said Amy Goyer, AARP’s family and caregiving expert. “You can do a lot to plan and prepare yourself and your family in advance that will help you remain in your home for as long as possible.”

While there are no hard and fast rules for every situation, here are some key financial concerns that should be discussed and evaluated when making the decision whether you can, indeed, age in place.

Making a home safe to age in place

Homes built years ago rarely meet the needs of today’s older adults.

“There are very few homes in the United States, particularly single-family homes, that are what we’d consider accessible,” said Linda Couch, senior vice president of policy for LeadingAge, a national association of nonprofit providers of aging services.

Every home is different and every person’s needs are different but making a home accessible often means making physical renovations such as:

* Zero-step entries, which provide continuous, flat path from the driveway or garage into the house.

* Curbless showers, which reduce risk of trips and falls in the bathroom.

* Halls and doorways wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair.

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