People’s goals tend to align as they get older. They want to stay in their own homes for as long as possible, maintain their independence, and only seek assistance 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 requires meticulous planning and consideration.
Health concerns are one of the most common reasons why older adults choose to relocate. Changes in health as people age can make independent living difficult, if not impossible. This frequently leads families to consider safer and more secure alternatives, such as moving to a senior living facility. For many people, the most important question is whether to relocate or age in place.
Consider Relocating
Geriatrics Healthcare Professionals* published a study in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society that investigated how and why people frequently change their minds about aging in place. The study aimed to gain a deeper understanding of the factors that prompt older adults to reconsider their original plans for aging. They eventually identified 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 important finding from the study? Over a 36-month period, nearly half of the older adults surveyed changed their minds about continuing to age in place.
When weighing options, keep in mind that decisions about care and living arrangements frequently necessitate the involvement of a family member. Having someone assist with research, service coordination, or moving management can help make the process go more smoothly. Solo agers (those without immediate family support) may discover that aging in place is a more practical way to maintain their independence.
Tips For Aging in Place
Several measures can be implemented to make the home environment safer and more manageable for older adults. A room-by-room assessment can help identify potential hazards and areas for improvement. Immediate safety concerns, such as tightening loose stair railings and improving lighting, should be prioritized. Following that, more extensive changes can be implemented to create a safer living environment that promotes aging in place.
Homeowners frequently express concerns about the cost of home improvements. Thankfully, financial assistance may be available. State housing finance agencies, social services departments, community development organizations, and even federal programs frequently offer assistance or discounts to help cover the costs of necessary repairs and safety updates.
Another critical aspect of planning to age in place is determining how to finance future care needs. Home-based services can be expensive, but they may be less so than moving to a residential facility. Consider an assisted living facility or a nursing home. Their financial circumstances will heavily influence individuals’ ability to pay for care and their eligibility for assistance programs. Additionally, the specific services they’ll need will be a major deciding factor.
Which Option is Best For You?
The best time to begin planning for your retirement is before you require extensive care. Early planning enables people to make important decisions while still sharp and active.
The first step is to research available home-based care services in the area and compare their costs. Preparing ahead of time also enables homeowners to make adjustments to better meet their changing needs as they age in place.
It is also critical to consider any pre-existing medical conditions. Diabetes and heart disease, for example, can impair mobility and self-care abilities over time. Consultation with a healthcare provider can provide valuable information about how these illnesses may progress and impact future living arrangements.
Open communication with family, friends, and caregivers is critical. Discussing the type and level of support needed to successfully stay at home ensures that expectations are realistic and helps determine who can offer assistance when needed. It’s also a good idea to review the decision regularly, as personal needs and circumstances are likely to 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 will require careful planning, consideration of health and financial factors, and a willingness to adapt as needs change. Will you choose to stay at home or move to a senior living community? Regardless, making informed decisions is critical to ensuring your safety, comfort, and peace of mind in the years ahead.
Check out this article from the National Institute on Aging to learn more.
*Source: Forbes, National Institute on Aging
