The day a child leaves home can be bittersweet for parents. Although a son or daughter being successful and mature enough to move on to new opportunities can be a source of pride, parents typically lament the quiet that comes from empty rooms and a change to the daily routine they’d grown accustomed to when the kids were around.

After some time, some couples decide to downsize to a home more befitting the empty nester lifestyle. Downsizing presents an option for homeowners whose kids have left the nest.

New analysis from a survey of 2,500 empty nesters commissioned by Regency Living found that 30% of empty nesters choose to downsize and move from their original family homes. When retirement is just around the corner, many professionals shift focus to how they want to live and where.

Moving to a new home presents plenty of opportunities for older adults, including a chance to choose a home based on what’s right for them in this stage of life. There are questions homeowners can ask themselves as they ponder if downsizing is right for them.

How much upkeep can I handle?

A lifelong family home may be well-loved, but chances are it requires significant upkeep and repairs. Empty nesters may choose to move on to a home that offers lifestyle benefits like less maintenance. Homes in lifestyle communities or those overseen by a homeowners’ association tend to have certain maintenance built into a monthly fee.

Is this layout still a fit?

Many empty nesters may not immediately feel the effects of aging, but before selecting a next home, individuals should think about aging in place and any unique needs they may have. Opting for a single-level home, or at least one with the owner’s suite on the main level, can be advantageous.

Can I make due with less square footage?

A cavernous home with many rooms often isn’t desirable for empty nesters. All of that square footage requires heating, cooling and maintenance. Rattling around inside a big, empty house may precipitate the decision to downsize.

Downsizing also can free up home equity, which can be used to fund retirement needs.

Which features do you desire?

Many empty nesters want the next home to focus on some luxury items they may have bypassed in the first home when priorities lay elsewhere. Upscale environments like gourmet kitchens, spa-like bathrooms and outdoor living spaces may be in the budget when moving into a home with a smaller footprint.

Will my home be secure while I travel?

Empty nesters might want to choose homes in gated communities or condominium complexes for safety reasons. Should they opt to spend a portion of time at a vacation rental or second home as snowbirds, secure communities enable residents to leave their primary residence with the peace of mind that those homes will be less vulnerable to thieves.

Does this home have enough light?

The American Optometric Association says many adults start to have problems seeing clearly beginning at age 40. Homes with more light from large windows and artificial lighting can reduce accident risk.

Moving to a smaller home is a consideration for many empty nesters. Various features offer benefits to adults who want to age in place.