People’s goals often align as they get older. They want to stay in their own homes for as long as possible, preserving their independence, and rely on friends and relatives for help only when absolutely necessary. Aging in place is the concept of remaining in one’s own home throughout the aging process. Still, successfuly aging in place calls for careful thought and preparation.
Health issues are among the most common reasons older Americans choose to move. As people age, changes in health can make life independent challenging, if not impossible. This often prompts them to consider more secure and safer options, such as relocating to a senior living facility. Many people’s first concern is whether they should age in place or move.
Consider Relocating
Geriatric healthcare professionals investigated how and why individuals often change their opinions on aging in place in a study* published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. The study aimed to better understand the factors influencing elderly people to change their initial plans for aging. The study found several factors, among them:
- 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 important discovery of the research? About half of the older adults involved changed their minds over a 36-month period regarding whether to remain in place as they aged.
When weighing choices, remember that decisions about housing and care sometimes require help from family members. Having someone help with research, organizing services, or managing a move to a new place will help simplify the process. Aging in place may be a more sensible approach for solo agers—those without direct family support—to preserve their independence.
Tips For Aging in Place
Older individuals can take several actions to make their home environment safer and more manageable. Room-by-room assessments can identify potential risks and areas that require improvement. First in importance should be immediate safety issues, including tightening loose stair railings and enhancing lighting. More thorough changes can then be made to guarantee a safer living environment that promotes aging in place.
Common concerns are over the expense of house renovations. Luckily, money could be accessible. To help offset the cost of required repairs and safety updates, state housing finance agencies, social services departments, community development organizations, and even federal programs often provide aid or discounts.
Deciding how to pay for future care needs is another crucial aspect of preparing for aging in place. Though they can be costly, home-based services may be less expensive than moving to a residential facility. An assisted living facility or a nursing home, for instance, People’s financial situation, eligibility for assistance programs, and the kinds of services they require will all greatly impact their capacity to pay for care.
Which Option is Best For You?
It’s ideal to start planning your retirement expenses before you require significant care. Early planning enables people to make informed decisions while still active and sharp. Researching local home-based care options and cost comparison is the first step. Making changes to better fit their evolving needs as they age in place also enables homeowners to be ahead of the game.
One should also consider any pre-existing medical issues carefully. For instance, diabetes and heart disease can eventually limit mobility or self-care capacity. See a healthcare professional to obtain vital information regarding how these diseases may develop and impact future living arrangements.
Open communication with family members, friends, and caregivers is essential. Discussing the type and level of support required to effectively stay at home ensures realistic expectations and helps identify who can assist when needed. Reviewing the choice periodically is also a smart idea, as personal needs and situations can evolve.
Aging in place is something many older individuals who want to maintain their independence and live in familiar surroundings will consider. To reach this objective, however, careful planning, weighing financial and health considerations, and a readiness to adjust course as needs evolve are absolutely necessary. Will you choose to move to a senior living community or remain at home during your retirement? Regardless, wise decisions will help to guarantee your comfort, peace of mind, and safety in the coming years.
Check out this article from the National Institute on Aging to learn more.
*Source: Forbes, National Institute on Aging