"The housing needs for all of us change over time, depending on one's position in the life cycle. The single person needs only a room, young marrieds settle for a rented apartment, and the family with children needs more space, both inside and out. Children grow up and still more space is needed, then the children leave the nest. Their parents become "empty nesters." A spouse dies and leaves a person single again and often dependent on others. And then, perhaps, a nursing home becomes a necessity before the person passes on."