Blogs
Retirement Residence Styles - Helping Elderly Parents Age in Place
As the years pass, many older adults express their desire to age gracefully in the comfort of their homes. According to studies, a staggering 90% of seniors aspire to stay in their familiar surroundings as they grow older. If you or a loved one shares this sentiment, it's time to devise a plan for aging in place. Here are six essential steps to ensure a safe and fulfilling journey towards aging in place:

1. Complete a Home Safety Check

Before embarking on aging in place, it's crucial to ensure that your home is safe and accommodating. Conduct a thorough home safety check to preemptively reduce the risk of accidents or falls. Organizations like AARP have identified several easy modifications that can enhance safety. These include installing non-slip floor surfaces, adding grab bars in bathrooms, switching to lever-handled doorknobs, and setting up personal alert systems to call for help during emergencies.

2. Prioritize Your Health

Maintaining good physical health is a cornerstone of independent living at home. Prioritize a heart-healthy lifestyle by embracing a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and minimizing stress. These practices can help ward off serious health conditions such as heart disease, arthritis, dementia, and depression, allowing you to enjoy your home for years to come.

3. Make a Plan for Transportation

Staying engaged with your community is essential for a fulfilling life. While driving may be an option, it's not the only one. Explore various transportation alternatives such as public transit, carpooling with friends and family, or utilizing local taxi companies and ride-sharing services like Lyft. Ensuring you have reliable transportation options will help you maintain an active social life and access essential services.

4. Befriend Technology

Embracing technology can significantly enhance your aging-in-place experience. You don't need to become a tech guru to stay connected with loved ones worldwide. Familiarize yourself with messaging and video conferencing apps on your smartphone or tablet to stay in touch effortlessly. Technology can also help you stay informed about community events and access convenient grocery delivery and transportation services.

5. Look into Long-Term Care Insurance

Your healthcare needs may change as you age, and you may require long-term care. It's worth noting that Medicare does not cover ongoing long-term home care. Exploring alternatives like long-term care insurance can be a wise financial decision. This type of insurance helps cover the costs of care not typically covered by health insurance or Medicare, ensuring you're prepared when considering in-home caregivers.

6. Make a Plan for Care

Preparing for future home care needs is not just a financial matter but also a matter of arranging caregiving support. Programs like the Seniors At Home Futures Program are designed for healthy individuals who anticipate their needs changing as they age. Enrolling in such programs provides peace of mind, knowing who to call in case of a crisis or when it's time to consider additional assistance at home, and often comes at no cost.

By taking these proactive steps now, you'll pave the way for aging in place, allowing you to live life on your terms in the comfort of your cherished home, not just today but in the years to come. Embrace this journey confidently, knowing that a well-prepared plan can make all the difference in your golden years.
Share by: