Granny-pods, senior suites, or in-law suites – whatever you might call them, they are a cool idea. Let’s explore a local builder who excels at them.
Linked Living Homes is a general contractor in Appleton. The owner, Tom Cops got his degree in mechanical engineering. After college, he worked as a project manager before joining the family business, Cops Construction, where he worked for 23 years.
During his career, Tom watched both seniors and people with special needs struggle with housing and the need to find something that works as needs change. Helping folks find a solution became his passion, and in 2018, he started his own business, Linked Living Homes where they create home additions that keep families together.
Tom feels God gave him the inspiration on building these specialized living options.
Picture provided by Linked Living Homes
At Linked Living their mission is to “bring families together and promote family living, especially for the elderly and those with special needs”.
Basically, it is creating a custom-made addition to a home that allows family members to live adjacent to each other yet still allowing each to have their own space. Mom and/or Dad can maintain their independence, and as needs change, the family is right there to assist.
Linked Living Homes has a free open house every Wednesday from 4:30 pm – 7:30 pm. They are at 925 N. Perkins St., Appleton. If you go, you can look at their senior suite showroom. It is a 672 square-foot addition at their production facility in Appleton. They always have someone there to answer questions, no need to sign up, just stop in. If you feel the need to confirm times, text 920-903-0919.
I went and checked it out. I was struck by how spacious the floor model was and how it accommodated everything you might need. Their example addition, (they are 100% customizable) was a living room, kitchen, bedroom and bathroom with laundry. Those four areas are basically where you spend all your time at home anyway, right?
With this set-up, the parent can have their own base, one that is built with safety in mind. Whether they are looking for zero-entry, grab bars, or open pathways, it can be designed for what they need. They can stay more independent. and still be only a doorstep away from their family.
The adult children, on whose property this is probably built, have the peace of mind of knowing that their parents are taken care of. If greater help is required, paid home care can be brought in.
A senior suite will likely add significantly to the property value of the house and may save money over time compared to living in assisted living or nursing homes.
Of course this isn’t the solution for everyone, but for those who opt for linked living may find that keeping loved ones close is a benefit for parents, their adult children, and their grandchildren as well.
Tom’s sons Greg and Michael work there, as well as daughter Elena. Their family shares a passion for serving your families, enabling you to take care of each other and live connected.
Jean Long Manteufel writes a column each month about life changes associated with aging. Send your questions to Jean@TransitionsWithJean.com or call 920-585-7769.