Aging in Place

The concept of “aging in place” is not new, but you may not have heard the term before. It simply means continuing to live in your own home as you grow older.  The key to successful aging in place is using products, services, and conveniences to get the assistance you need as your circumstances change.

There are many advantages to aging in place. It’s comfortable and familiar. You maintain your sense of independence, you know the neighborhood, you’re in close proximity to shopping, your doctor, bank, and other services you need. There is plenty of room for family to visit. You may have beloved pets and years of cherished belongings. If you need personal assistance, there are many reputable home-care agencies to choose from. You should look for one that hires their caregivers as employees, not contractors, and invests in their employees with training and education.

There are also disadvantages to aging in place: Safety may be an issue, especially if you live alone. Falls pose the biggest threat to safety, but heart attacks and strokes are also common. Over the years your neighborhood may have changed in a way you don’t like, making you feel less secure. Living alone can be isolating, especially if you or friends have stopped driving. Home maintenance and repairs can be overwhelming, and your home may need to be modified with items such as ramps, grab bars, or stair lifts. 

Another important issue seniors face is moving from their primary residence. This can mean moving to a smaller house, a townhouse or apartment, or moving into a senior community or an assisted-living facility. There are many different choices, and it’s smart to explore and understand your options thoroughly.

Moving is more than a fresh start. It can be an exciting introduction to a new way of life. Moving gives you an opportunity to downsize and have a home that is the right size for your current needs. You can organize your belongings and keep only what you need and will use. Many people feel freer and happier without many things they have accumulated over the years. If you have a home, you can sell it or rent it, and use the money for your needs. You can select a new home without stairs, making traffic flow easier, safer, and more convenient. If you’re considering an independent senior community or assisted living, there are many opportunities to make new friends. There are numerous activities to participate in, and you can enjoy more leisure time. Meals are provided, so you don’t have to cook or shop if you don’t want to. You can maintain your independence, and you’ll have a safety net in case you need help in the future.

Moving can be stressful and emotional, and transitions can be difficult at any age. You won’t be able to bring everything to your new home, you’re going to have to make some editing decisions. A move manager can help you organize your items, and determine what you will really need and be able to use in your new place. They can make the downsizing process much easier and help you transition to your new home.

If you’re considering a move, here are some things to consider:

• How independent am I now, and what changes do I foresee in the future (2-5 years)?
• What kind of lifestyle do I want, and what can I afford?
• Do I feel safe? Would I feel more comfortable knowing that someone would check on me daily? Do I think I might have a risk of falling?
• Do I have any conditions that may require care in the near future? Examples would be Diabetes, history of stroke, high blood pressure, history of falls, prior heart attack, depression or anxiety.
• How well suited is my home to aging in place? Is my home on one single level? Is it well suited to modifications and remodeling? How much will it cost to make necessary modifications for safety? This could include putting in new flooring, installing ramps, putting in grab bars and hand held nozzles in showers, widening doors, improving lighting, and creating better access/traffic flow throughout the home.  How much money and time will it take to make the home safe and secure for my needs?

Do the math: 

Staying in your home: 

• Costs: Mortgage (if any), property yaxes, all utilities, cost of outside help (homecare, gardener, housecleaner), Food for yourself and caregiver (if any), cost of retrofitting your home for accessibility, ongoing home maintenance/repairs.
• Revenue: None

Moving: 

• Costs: Rent for assisted living community which includes all food and utilities, cost of moving, cost of getting rid of years of possessions.
• Revenue: Proceeds from sale of home, or rental income if you choose to rent it.
• Timetable: Best case scenario is to move when you want to, on your timetable, not when you have to.  Be part of the process, that makes the adjustment easier.

The bottom line:

Plan ahead. Better planning means more control for you. Don’t wait for the emergency!