Benefits of Aging in Place

Many older individuals are choosing to age in place, which means they are remaining in their own homes or within their community rather than moving to assisted living facilities or nursing homes. In fact, according to Forbes, a significant majority of adults over 50 express a preference for aging in place at home, with 92% of older adults preferring to live out their later years in the homes they currently live in. They also state that over the past twenty years, the percentage of older adults living in nursing homes has steadily declined, highlighting the growing trend of aging in place as a preferred option for maintaining independence and quality of life.

The benefits of aging in place are numerous for those who wish to stay at home instead of moving to an assisted living facility when they get older. Even when in-home care is required to support daily living, the benefits of aging in place are still plentiful. The decision to remain in one's own home, rather than transitioning to an assisted living facility or nursing home, is increasingly favored by older adults, as recognized in the above statistics. The ability to stay in one's home, with the assistance of in-home care services, such as personal care, or companion care, reflects a growing trend among older adults who value the unique benefits that this arrangement provides. When deciding whether to age in place at home or move into an assisted living facility, it’s helpful to review the benefits of aging in place so that you have all the information you need. 

JUMP TO: What Is Aging In Place? | Consistency Is Key | Promotes Independence | Reduces The Cost Of Care | How To Adapt Home For Aging In Place

What Is Aging In Place?

Aging in place refers to the growing trend of seniors and aging individuals choosing to remain in their homes and communities as they age, rather than relocating to institutional settings like assisted living facilities or nursing homes. This concept highlights the desire to stay in familiar surroundings, whether that means continuing to live in the homes where they spent much of their adult lives or moving to more manageable living spaces such as condos or apartments. While aging in place typically involves staying in the home you’ve made many memories in, it can also involve relocating to a smaller, more convenient home or moving in with family or friends to maintain independence while still receiving the support they need.

For older adults with physical conditions or cognitive disorders, aging in place may also involve the addition of services related to in-home care in Pittsfield. These services ensure that safety and health remain a top priority, allowing seniors to enjoy the benefits of aging in place while receiving the necessary support to manage their daily lives. This approach has become increasingly popular throughout the years, as it allows seniors to maintain a sense of independence and connection to their communities.

Consistency Is Key

One significant benefit of aging in place is the consistency it provides, especially for seniors who have lived in their homes for decades, or those who have developed cognitive impairments, making it an ideal option for those in need of dementia care or Alzheimer's care. This familiarity allows them to retain the consistency of living at home, as their surroundings are familiar, which can be crucial as they age. Consistency is key for many elderly individuals, as it helps them to maintain their sense of independence and not have to face the mental challenges of adapting to a new routine and create new friends. For those who have developed, age-related memory loss and dementia primarily affect short-term memory, leaving long-term memories more intact. By staying in a familiar environment, seniors are surrounded by long-term memory stimuli that help reduce confusion and stress as their conditions worsen. Living in a consistent environment helps to reduce the amount of outbursts and helps to improve their mental clarity. Removing them from this setting and placing them in new environments can disrupt these connections, leading to increased disorientation and emotions. Maintaining consistency by aging in place at home can be particularly beneficial for those with cognitive impairments or memory issues, as it helps preserve a sense of stability and comfort.

Aging in Place at Home Promotes Independence

Aging in place at home also plays an important part in promoting independence for seniors, even when they require in-home care. Staying in their own homes, rather than moving into an assisted living facility or nursing home, allows older adults to maintain a sense of control over their daily routines, decisions, and personal environment. This ability to keep their autonomy is essential for their self-esteem and overall well-being. Even with the support of in-home care, seniors can continue to perform tasks that they are capable of, participate in familiar activities in their community, and make choices about their care and lifestyle. In-home care is designed to supplement, rather than replace, their independence, while still providing assistance with tasks that have become challenging. Aging in place at home allows seniors to remain active participants in their lives. This approach not only preserves their dignity but also fosters a sense of empowerment as they continue to live in a space that they have spent years making memories in.

Reduces The Cost Of Care

Aging in place at home can also significantly reduce the cost of care for seniors, making it a more financially viable option compared to the expenses associated with assisted living centers. Assisted living facilities often come with high costs due to the cost of staff and the services they provide. These costs can quickly deplete a lifetime of savings. For older adults living on fixed incomes, budgeting for health care, housing, and other necessities can be challenging, making the prospect of paying for long-term care in an assisted living facility or nursing home financially impossible.

By remaining in their own homes, many seniors can avoid the burden of these additional expenses, especially those who have paid off their homes completely. By aging in place in a home that has no monthly mortgage, they can further reduce financial strain, and afford in home care. Additionally, some seniors may be eligible to convert their home’s equity into income through the Federal Housing Administration’s Home Equity Conversion Mortgage program. By doing so, they can gain an additional financial resource to support aging in place. This approach allows seniors to maintain their independence by living at home while managing their finances more effectively.

How To Adapt Home For Aging In Place

If you or a loved one plan on aging in place at home, it's important to set yourself or your loved one up for success by ensuring the living environment is safe and accessible. Here's how simple modifications to the home can make a significant difference in promoting safety and making it easier to get around the home. By making some modifications, you can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. Proactively making these changes can create a home environment that supports independence and well-being, allowing you or your loved one to enjoy the comfort and familiarity of home while minimizing potential hazards.

• Easy-Grip Knobs and Levers - Replacing traditional knobs with easy-grip knobs or levers for doors and cabinets is a simple modification that promotes safety when seniors choose to age in place. Levers and easy grip door knobs are easier to operate for individuals with limited hand strength or dexterity, especially when they are experiencing severe arthritis.
• Adjustable Handheld Shower Heads - Installing an adjustable handheld shower head in the bathroom is also very beneficial for safety reasons. This allows for easier showering and reduces the need to stand for long periods, reducing the risks of slip and falls, making personal hygiene routines convent and safe.
• Rearranging Furniture - Make sure to arrange furniture to ensure clear, wide passageways throughout the home, especially if a wheelchair is used regularly. This helps prevent falls, and other accidents. It also makes it that much easier to move around, especially for those using mobility aids like wheelchairs and walkers.
• Removal of Trip Hazards - Eliminate all potential trip hazards like loose carpeting, floor saddles, or uneven flooring. A smooth, even floor significantly reduces the risk of falls and injuries.
• Non-Slip Floor Coverings - Installing non-slip mats or floor coverings in areas that are prone to getting wet, such as the bathroom or kitchen, are important safety measures. These coverings provide additional traction and help prevent slipping.
• Handrails - Adding handrails in key areas is also very helpful. Adding them along stairways and in bathrooms helps to provide support and prevent accidents. Handrails offer additional support and stability when maneuvering through the house, making it safer to navigate stairs and slippery areas.
• Automatic Outdoor Lighting - Install automatic lighting outdoors and even indoors to ensure pathways and hallways are well-lit at all times. This helps prevent accidents caused by low visibility, and prevents seniors from having to maneuver in the dark to find a light switch. This enhances safety when entering or exiting the home.

If you or a loved one are considering aging in place and need support with in-home care near you, including companion care, respite care, or home care services, please reach out to us. We’re here to provide the consistency and personalized assistance needed to maintain independence and quality of life in the comfort of your own home. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help.