By: Jennifer Beach, LSW, MA, C-SWCM
More than 10,000 people turn 65 every day in the United States. For some, assisted living and long-term care eventually may be required but for many, staying at home will continue to be an option.
Aging in your own home can provide many benefits including comfort, stability and contentment. Everyone has their own reasons to remain in their home. Contributing factors include independence, familiar surroundings, established routines and reduced living costs.
Should I Stay?
If the goal is to stay at home, one important consideration is evaluating your health and your home. Are you willing to adapt, modify or change to meet your changing needs as they evolve? Some people require little assistance; others may need social support, personal services and other modifications.
Consider the following when evaluating your ability and willingness to live independently and safely. How many tasks do you want to do on your own? For which do you require assistance?
Products and Services
- House Cleaning
- Laundry Service
- Meal Preparation
- Lawn/yard Maintenance
- Home Maintenance (cleaning gutters, windows, curtains, etc.)
Personal Care Services
- Medication Management
- Incontinence Care
- Fitness and Balance Training
- Support with Managing Health Care System
- Support with Paying Bills, Managing Finances
- Hygiene (dental/bathing/shaving)
- In-Home Haircuts
- Transportation
- Meal Preparation
- Errands
Technology
- Internet Connection
- Computers, Tablets, Smart Phones
- Hire service to set up and train to utilize telemedicine, video conferencing, on-line delivery services, banking, security systems, cameras and more.
Home Safety
- Handrails throughout the house as needed, including stairs, bathroom, entryways, etc.
- Removing/securing cords, area rugs
- Rearranging furniture, rooms
- Walk-in tub with low threshold and seat
- Raise toilet and/or raise seat
- Slip-free mats in shower/tub/floor
- Efficient/extra lighting in bathroom, bedroom, hallways
- Security system
Medical Alert System
Medical alert system with fall detection, with ability to connect to emergency services
Communication
Update emergency contacts, medications, legal documents and any pertinent information. Keep this information in a designated location and inform a designated person about this information.
Handy Home Safety Checklists Online
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention Check for Safety
- National Institute of Aging Fall-Proofing Your Home
- National Fire Protection Association Home Safety Checklist
If your goal is to remain in your home as you age, there is no better time to discuss and explore the amazing resources available today. Take time now to realistically examine your home, health, resources and goals. Consider talking with your doctor, a certified Aging Life Care Professional, Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist from the National Association of Home Builders and/or a Certified Financial Planner.
You can also gather information from your local Area Agency on Aging. Utilizing available resources can help answer questions, brainstorm ideas, and keep you on track to develop a realistic plan in helping you remain safely in your home as you age.