Most people want to stay in their homes as they age. A 2015 AARP survey found that nearly 90 percent of those ages 65 and older wanted this. However, simply wanting to age in place does not ultimately make it happen. Careful planning and evaluation are essential if you want to reach this goal. Furthermore, you should not want to just stay in your home as long as possible. You should feel the need to stay at home safely and happily. Regardless, you should be taking action now if this is your goal. Read further to get the facts on what it takes to successfully age in place.
Number one on the list from this Forbes article is weighing the finances. Often we think that when we age in place, it is less expensive than a retirement home or assisted living. Yet we need to weigh in the additional costs that add up. Think of the maintenance, repairs, and upgrades needed to maintain a home’s function and value. In addition, you likely will need help, such as a caregiver or transportation at some point as you age. This is also an added cost. Deciding what is best for you financially is just the start.
Maintaining social connections is vital to anyone’s well-being. As we age, we tend to become more isolated. An advantage to an assisted or independent livings is that it’s easier to connect socially through planned activities. Yet the desire to maintain the connections you have while at home is understandable. This is another aspect to consider.
You may be wondering who will help you. You need to think about how to maintain your quality of life while aging in place. Will you hire paid caregivers or companions? Or would you utilize agencies that can drive you to your appointments and the grocery store when you’re unable to? Many agencies, like Arizona Elder Care, are able to help with the logistics and planning. In addition, aging life care managers can help you put together a plan so that you can age the way you want rather than having to make decisions based on a crisis.
Finally, always review and revise. While your goal of aging in place may stay the same, your personal needs or financial status may change. Having someone who can help you evaluate your needs later in life is so important. All in all, the main goal should be maintaining your quality of life, safety, and independence for as long as possible.