Aging In Place: Strategies, Support & Care Options
"Aging in place" means being able to reside in your own home within your community, safely, comfortably, and independently, regardless of age, income, or ability level. In fact, nearly 75% of adults aged 50 or older prefer to remain in their homes for as long as possible.
However, studies indicate that 70% of adults aged 65 or older will require long-term care at some point in their lives. As you age, you may find yourself needing help with everyday tasks in your home—activities like cooking, pet care, and grocery shopping that you once managed on your own.
It's crucial to have open and honest discussions with your loved ones about your future plans and desires.
Basics of Aging in Place
When considering aging in place, prioritizing physical safety and accessibility is crucial. To better understand how to make your current home more suitable for aging, you can consult specialists such as:
Geriatric care managers, who can assess your living situation and suggest relevant services.
Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists (CAPS), who can evaluate your home, provide safety recommendations, and suggest any necessary renovations.
For addressing potential mobility issues, standard homes or apartments may require renovations to accommodate aids like canes, walkers, or wheelchairs. Installing a chairlift can be particularly helpful for navigating stairs.
Easy Home Modifications for Accessibility
Install a shower chair or raised toilet seat in your current bathroom.
Secure any throw rugs that could cause tripping hazards.
Remove unnecessary furniture that could pose risks.
Increase lighting in hallways, closets, dimly lit rooms, and outdoor pathways.
Replace traditional doorknobs with lever-style handles.
Add grab bars in showers and near toilets.
Keep heavy items stored at waist level for easy access.
Install anti-scalding devices for sinks, tubs, and showers.
Consider automatic shut-off devices for stoves and ovens.
Some modifications or special equipment added to your home for physical disabilities may be considered qualified medical expenses for certain types of medical plans, such as health savings accounts (HSAs) or retiree health accounts. Check your plan’s documents for more information.
Remodeling with a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS)
If you're considering remodeling, look for a contractor, remodeler, or architect experienced with aging in place or universal design. The CAPS program, developed by the National Association of Home Builders in collaboration with AARP, provides a directory of experienced remodelers with the CAPS designation on its website. Find an experienced CAPS-designated remodeler in your area.
Once you've determined a budget for the project, consulting with an experienced remodeler or contractor can help you decide what's feasible and how to proceed. Depending on costs, downsizing and moving to a safer home might be a better option.
Caregiving Support
Aging in place involves more than just moving around your house; it's about managing daily life. As you age, you may require assistance with daily activities. This help can enable you to continue living in your own home for a longer period of time. Hiring someone to assist you with tasks can make it easier for you to maintain your independence as you grow older.
Essential Tasks for Independent Living
If staying in your home is a priority as you age, it's important to evaluate your ability to complete these tasks, either with or without assistance:
Taking medication correctly and on time
Safely preparing and consuming nutritious meals
Bathing and grooming
Laundry and housekeeping
Socializing
Managing finances
In-Home Caregiving Options
Caregivers can assist with a range of daily tasks or provide specialized 24-hour care. Explore the services available in your area. Visit, interview, and review local options to assess their quality and suitability for your needs.
Home Health Care: Offers assistance with tasks like cooking, cleaning, shopping, as well as companionship and social engagement.
Home Health Aides: Provide help with bathing, grooming, and personal care for individuals living at home or with family.
Evening Care: Offers in-home support for those requiring overnight assistance.
Cohousing or Independent Living Communities: Provide opportunities for independent living within a community where residents support each other as they age. They often offer social activities, housekeeping, and meal services.
Dog Walkers and Pet Sitters: Assist with pet care, including feeding, exercise, and companionship.
Technology for Aging in Place
Technology has made it easier to age in place. This is done by providing products and services for remote monitoring. This monitoring can be used for yourself or a loved one.
Personal Emergency Response Systems: Modern options for detecting falls and requesting assistance include sleek, new devices like smartwatches and wrist-worn products with features such as step counters. These devices can be discreet and stylish.
Smart Pillboxes: These pill dispensers remain locked until it's time for a specific medication, with features like flashing reminders and remote monitoring to ensure medications are taken correctly and on time.
Home Monitoring Systems: Sensors placed around the house can track activities such as how often the refrigerator or doors are opened. These systems allow children or caregivers to monitor changes in daily patterns, which could indicate potential issues.
These technological solutions provide peace of mind and assist in maintaining independence while aging in place.
Resources for Aging in Place
AARP HomeFit Guide: Discover smart strategies to make your home comfortable, safe, and perfectly suited for your needs.
Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE): Access healthcare services in your home, community, and PACE centers.
Area Agency on Aging (AAA): Access resources to support aging in your home. AAA services vary by location but may include referrals for home health aides, housekeepers, and transportation assistance. They can also provide counseling to help navigate insurance and Medicare options.
Eldercare Locator: Connects older adults with trusted local resources such as meal services, home care, and transportation.
State Health Insurance Assistance Programs: Receive assistance in navigating Medicare through state-specific insurance counseling.
Administration for Community Living: Offers links to various support services needed for successful living in your community.
Exploring Caregiving Facilities When Independent Living Isn't Viable
While there may be no immediate need for action, it's wise to consider options for when living at home is no longer feasible. Here are some common types of caregiving facilities you may need to explore:
Adult Day Health Care: Offers supervised care during the day, including social activities, meals, and sometimes healthcare services.
Assisted Living Communities: Blend independence with specialized care, typically providing apartment-sized homes and assistance with daily activities as required.
Memory Care: Specialized assisted living for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer's, offering 24-hour supervision and trained staff to ensure residents' safety and comfort.
Nursing Homes: Provide intensive medical care for those who are seriously ill or recovering from health events, assisting with all daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and eating.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities: Offer a range of services allowing residents to stay in one location potentially for life. These communities often include independent living apartments, assisted living facilities, and nursing home services for varying levels of care.
Revising Your Budget
When you review your budget, remember to include expenses for making your home accessible. This is important if you plan to stay there as you get older. Remember to consider caregiving costs. These costs can vary based on the level of care needed, your insurance coverage, and your location.
Bottom Line
You have many choices to help you age in place gracefully. These options include making changes to your home, getting help from caregivers, and looking into different living arrangements. Remember to plan ahead, have open discussions with loved ones, and utilize the resources and technologies designed to support your needs. With thoughtful preparation and support, you can navigate the aging process with confidence and dignity.
Sources:
https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/life-events/how-to-age-in-place
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This information is an overview and should not be considered as specific guidance or recommendations for any individual or business.
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