Very thoughtful commentary on the decisions we have to make as we age. While there are obviously more practical considerations with age, I think housing is a very individual decision--what appeals to one, won't necessarily appeal to another.

I'm almost the same age as your aunt, I moved to France ten years ago and live in an old stone house with three flights of stairs. After hip replacement surgery last year, I was concerned that the stairs would be a problem. I now climb up and down them several times a day and hope I can continue to do so, albeit more slowly.

For me, it's a perfect place, it might not be for others of my age. So much is dependent on individual circumstances--health, support and, of course, one's personal preference.