Life with Chronic Disease: Granny Pods Aren’t Just for Grannies

The tiny house movement has swept the country by storm. However, one of the downsides of the “tiny home,” which is designed to be moved, is how narrow it can be. Enter the independent prefab “home,” ranging from 288 to 600 sq ft., which can be set up in a back yard, connecting to the home owner’s sewer, water etc.

Known by a variety of names-Granny Pod, In-Law Cottage, Granny Flat, Back Yard Cottage-there are various products on the market that allow for easy installation. MedCottage  has gone step farther These can be rented or purchased and comes with a lot of medical extras that traditional tiny houses don’t have. The cottage can be compared to a bungalow from the outside, and a nice hotel suite on the inside with room for a bed, living room space, kitchenette and bathroom. Standard safety features include hand railings, defibrillators, first aid supplies, lighted floorboards and a soft floor to minimize damage from falls. About 12 by 24 feet—essentially the size of a spacious master bedroom—the structures feature double French doors and can accommodate a wheelchair and hospital equipment, if needed.

At any age, having a smaller independent space, that still keeps you close to family, friends and community can be a real advantage both financially as well as a way to reduce social isolation. Further, for those with chronic conditions, this approach allows you to design a living space that can accommodate your changing needs.

In Vermont, many of our older homes have apartments attached to them. As a son or daughter married and took over more and more responsibilities of the farm, smaller living structures were built for the parent(s). Today, many of these homes have converted their “apartments” into rentals, AirBnB, and offices. Basically, what’s old is new again.

With the Granny Pod movement in full swing, it’s worth considering the advantages and disadvantages.

ADVANTAGES:

• Accessibility-doors are wider to accommodate walkers and wheel chairs, bathrooms are handicap equipped and everything is on one floor.

• Homelike-comes equipped with all the conveniences to do laundry, cook, and even entertain. Pets can remain with their owners.

• Independence-provides freedom to be in one’s own space but yet be in close proximity to family, community and caregiver.

• Flexibility-not only can these be rented for as long as you need them, they provide privacy, safety and security. They also come occupant ready and, if you decide to keep them after the original occupant no longer needs it, they can be converted into an AirBnB option, guest housing etc. They can also be resold. Most companies manufacturing offer financing.

POSSIBLE CONCERNS

• Cost-While cheaper than nursing home and other forms of long-term care, purchasing a pre fab “pod” can be expensive. Prices range from about $40,000 to $125,000, based on size, configuration and enhancements. However, comparing that to other options, it can certainly be cheaper- basic assisted living efficiency $50,000 to $60,000 a year, nursing facility costs about $125,000 a year.

• Utilities/Zoning- Pods are designed to connect to your existing utilities, which may require upgrades to your system. You will also need to check for zoning as there maybe restrictions where you live. Some areas may require demonstrated need, others may require that the structure be removed after the original occupant is no longer there.

• Neighborhood-Some neighbors may object to having the “pod” next door. In addition, if the person is moving away from their neighborhood and community, this could be isolating for them.  

The DIY (Do it yourself) Approach: Depending on your property, it can be cheaper and avoid some of the issues with zoning, neighbors etc. If you consider converting existing spaces, such as a garage, old shed, carriage house, milk house into a “cottage," check out All You Need to Know about Granny Pads.

The video below, while from Australia, explores not only the multiple uses of a Granny Flat and how it can evolve over time, it also highlights both the advantages and impacts of purchasing a pre fab Granny Flat.