Peg is a 79-year-old retiree living in a cottage-style tiny house on a foundation with her sweet dog, Buffy. She plans to age in place here. Over the last two years, she has found great joy in independent living in her own home. It’s the first time Peg has lived all by herself!
“I’m not scared. I’m just excited to think that I’m going to be 80 in this tiny house and that I make my own decisions. I’m in charge of me; what I want to put in my tiny house and take out of my tiny house is up to me. I’m in control, which I think so many people at my age don’t have that.”
-Peg, on aging in place in her tiny house on foundation
Peg chose The Denali XL model by Cornerstone Tiny Homes, a 432 sqft single-level tiny house on foundation. It’s the perfect size for her health needs. She struggles with her equilibrium, so falling down can happen easily. Importantly, anytime she feels off-balance, Peg can easily hold on to a wall or counter. This is a refreshing change. Previously, she lived in a large home and had to use walking sticks to get around.
She filled her tiny home with a heartfelt mix of her most beloved family heirlooms, hobby supplies, and small space-friendly furniture. For instance, in her living room, Peg added a small display case built by her father. It’s filled with curated memorabilia. Next to her loveseat sits a compact exercise bike. She uses this three times a week as part of her physical therapy.
Peg’s tiny house sits in a small neighborhood of code-compliant, foundation-based small homes in Oviedo, Florida. Everyone owns their own lot. Fortunately, for Peg, she gets along wonderfully with her neighbors. Her daughter also lives close by. All these factors provide a safety net for Peg but also much enjoyment.