Most of the time, the simple answer is “no.” There are a host of different options that are usually more cost effective than relocating.  They are also far less disruptive.   

            Emotionally the least popular option is to reorganize the first floor so that there is no need to use the second floor.  This option deserves careful consideration although the biggest deterrent is usually the lack of a full bath on the first floor. 

            A more popular but under utilized option is to install an “elevator chair.”   There is a small market for resale of used units.  There are also companies that will offer a lease option.  A major misperception is that the unit will permanently mar the carpet or the floor.  The quality companies can install the units in a way that leaves nary a mark.  And even if there is some damage, the value of the freedom and comfort that is achieved is always going to be far greater than the cost of any repair.   Thanks to the improvements in technology and design, chair elevators can be installed on stairways that have a landing or even multiple landings. 

            Depending on the size of the lot and the local zoning codes, consideration should be given to modifying the home.  Three questions deserving to be answered are: (a) how much will the construction work disrupt of the health and well being of the occupants, (b) what is the likelihood that the cost of the modification can be recovered when the house is sold and (c) how much are the property taxes going to increase as a result of the modification.   The property tax question is the one that often gets overlooked

            If the full cost of the construction is not recovered when the home is sold, the project may still be financially prudent.  The construction cost is a one time, fixed expense whereas the cost of an assisted living is an ongoing expense.  The two different types of expenses deserve to be compared and carefully considered.  Selling a house for less money and paying the costs of an assisted can often mean more out-of-pocket expense than selling a house for more money even if the total cost of the renovation is not recovered.