Many people, as they age, have similar goals: to stay in their own homes, maintain independence for as long as possible, and rely on family and friends for assistance only when necessary. Aging in place refers to the practice of remaining in one’s own home as one ages. However, aging in place requires careful planning and consideration.
Health concerns are one of the most common reasons why older adults choose to relocate. As people age, changes in their health can make living independently difficult or even dangerous. This frequently prompts families to consider safer and more secure alternatives, such as relocating to a senior living community. For many, the most important question is whether they should relocate or continue to age in place.
Consider Relocating
A Geriatrics Healthcare Professionals* study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society investigated how and why people frequently change their minds about aging in place. The study’s goal was to gain a better understanding of the factors that lead older adults to reconsider their original plans for aging. The study identified several influences, such as:
- Personal health experiences, such as a sudden stroke or the diagnosis of a chronic illness.
- Health experiences of loved ones, like a spouse’s diagnosis or an unexpected medical event.
- The influence of those around them, including discussions with family members and observing friends who have made similar decisions.
A key finding of the study was that, over a 36-month period, nearly half of the older adults involved changed their minds about whether to continue aging at home or move to a long-term care facility.
When weighing options, remember that decisions about care and living arrangements frequently require the assistance of a family member. Having someone assist with research, service coordination, or move management can help make the process go more smoothly. Solo agers (those who do not have immediate family support) may find that aging in place is a more practical way to maintain their independence.
Tips For Aging in Place
There are several steps that can be taken to make the home environment safer and more manageable for senior citizens. Room-by-room assessments can help identify potential hazards and areas for improvement. Immediate safety concerns, such as repairing loose stair railings and improving lighting, should be prioritized. Following that, more comprehensive changes can be made to create a safer living environment that supports aging in place.
Concerns about the cost of home modifications are common. Fortunately, financial aid may be available. State housing finance agencies, social services departments, community development organizations, and federal programs often offer assistance or discounts to help cover the costs of necessary repairs and safety updates.
Another important aspect of planning to age in place is determining how to finance future care needs. Although home-based services can be costly, they may be less expensive than relocating to a residential facility such as assisted living facility or nursing home. Individuals’ ability to pay for care will be largely determined by their financial situation, eligibility for assistance programs, and the types of services required.
Which Option is Best For You?
The best time to start planning for aging in place is before extensive care is required. Early planning allows people to make important decisions while they are still capable and proactive.
The first step is to look into available home-based care services in the community and assess their costs. Preparing in advance also allows homeowners to make changes that meet their changing needs as they age in place.
It’s also important to consider any pre-existing health conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, which may have an impact on mobility or self-care abilities over time. Consulting a healthcare provider can provide useful information about how these illnesses may progress and affect future living arrangements.
Open communication with family, friends, and caregivers is essential. Discussing the type and level of support required to successfully stay at home ensures that expectations are realistic and helps identify who can help when needed. It is also a good idea to revisit the decision on a regular basis, as personal needs and circumstances change over time.
Many older adults who want to maintain their independence while remaining in familiar surroundings will consider aging in place. However, achieving this goal necessitates careful planning, consideration of health and financial factors, and a willingness to adapt as circumstances change. Whether you decide to stay at home or move to a senior living community, making informed decisions will help ensure your safety, comfort, and peace of mind in the years ahead.
Read this article from the National Institute on Aging to learn more.
*Source: Forbes, National Institute on Aging
