People’s goals tend to align as they grow older. They want to stay in their own homes for as long as possible, maintain their independence, and only ask for help from family and friends when absolutely necessary. Aging in place refers to the practice of remaining in one’s own home throughout the aging process. However, successful aging in place necessitates careful planning and consideration.
Health concerns are one of the most common reasons for older adults to relocate. Changes in health as people age can make it difficult, if not impossible, to live independently. This frequently leads retirees to consider safer and more secure alternatives, such as relocating to a senior living community. For many people, the most important decision is whether to move or age in place.
Consider Relocating
Geriatrics Healthcare Professionals* published a study in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society that looked into how and why people change their minds about aging in place. The study sought to gain a better understanding of the factors that cause older adults to reconsider their initial plans for aging. They eventually discovered a number of influences, including:
- 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.
One significant finding from the study? Over a 36-month period, nearly half of the older adults polled changed their minds about continuing to age in place.
When weighing your options, keep in mind that decisions about care and living arrangements frequently require the participation of a family member. Having someone assist with research, service coordination, or relocation management can make the process go more smoothly. Solo agers (those who lack immediate family support) may find that aging in place is a more practical way to maintain their independence.
Tips For Aging in Place
Several steps can be taken to make the home environment safer and more manageable for older adults. A room-by-room analysis can aid in identifying potential hazards and areas for improvement. Immediate safety concerns, such as tightening loose stair railings and improving lighting, should take priority. Following that, more significant changes can be made to create a safer living environment that encourages aging in place.
Homeowners frequently express their concerns about the cost of home improvements. Fortunately, financial aid may be available. State housing finance agencies, social services departments, community development organizations, and even federal programs frequently provide assistance or discounts to help with the cost of necessary repairs and safety updates.
Another important aspect of planning to age in place is determining how to fund future care needs. Home-based services can be costly, but they may be less expensive than moving into a residential facility. Consider an assisted living facility or nursing home. Individuals’ financial circumstances will have a significant impact on their ability to pay for care and eligibility for assistance programs. Furthermore, the specific services they require will be a major determining factor.
Which Option is Best For You?
The best time to start planning for retirement is before you need extensive care. Early planning allows people to make important decisions while they are still alert and active.
The first step is to look into available home-based care services in your area and compare their costs. Preparing ahead of time also allows homeowners to make changes that better meet their changing needs as they age in place.
It is also important to consider any pre-existing medical conditions. Diabetes and heart disease, for example, can reduce mobility and self-care skills over time. A consultation with a healthcare provider can provide useful information about how these illnesses will 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 reasonable and helps determine who can provide assistance when needed. It’s also a good idea to review the decision on a regular basis, as personal needs and circumstances are bound to change over time.
Many older adults who want to maintain their independence while staying in their familiar surroundings will consider aging in place. However, achieving this goal will necessitate careful planning, consideration of health and financial factors, and a willingness to adapt as circumstances change. Will you choose to remain at home or relocate to a senior living community? Regardless, making informed decisions is critical to your long-term safety, comfort, and peace of mind.
Check out this article from the National Institute on Aging to learn more.
*Source: Forbes, National Institute on Aging
