"Aging In Place" - Why We Love Home
Ask any older adult about their future plans. Generally, they prefer to stay in their own home. The thought of losing personal autonomy, moving in with adult children, or entering a retirement facility does not sound particularly appealing.
This desire to stay put and to grow older in your own home has been dubbed “aging in place.”
The Centers for Disease and Control Prevention defines “aging in place” as the ability to remain in “one’s own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level.” Many older adults are able to achieve this goal with help from in-home caregivers and community caregiving programs. However, this outcome is far more likely with some good information and planning. This process involves understanding and accessing a set of social and practical resources that keep older people connected, healthy, and happy.
Considerations for such a plan include the following:
Proximity of family or friends who can offer support.
Potential emergent health problems like diabetes or arthritis and what that might entail in terms of disability or decreased capacities.
Ways to modify or equip your home with support devices or safety features such as grab bars, non-skid pads, or porch ramps.
Availability and offerings of support programs from your local Department on Aging in the areas of transportation, meals, social events, tax and budgeting support, continuing education, and other helpful resources.
Financial feasibility of a professional in-home health aide with potential support from Medicare and Medicaid.
Preparation of Advance Directives for your health care.
HomeSharing programs that match seniors with carefully screened, non-related individuals who need an affordable place to live. Besides the companionship, they may offer help with shopping, housekeeping, lawn mowing and other related services.
Given the high costs of assisted living facilities and the emotional hardship of uprooting from a place of familiarity and comfort in old age, it may be that Dorothy was right all along—there’s no place like home!
As you navigate these challenging choices, remember that the team at Hillsborough Wills & Trusts has the expertise to help you Build Your Circle of Security. Contact us at:
https://hillsboroughwills.com/contact
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/aging-place-growing-older-home