Expert Tips for Embracing Aging in Place

Do you know what aging in place is? According to the National Institute on Aging, it is staying in your home as you get older. Living at home as you age requires careful planning from both you and your loved ones that you may depend on when that time comes. One of the most important things that you can do now is determine what type of care you may need and what types of care you might want so you can learn about various services and how much they may cost.

Some questions and matters that you might consider are: do I have any chronic illnesses, is my house ideal for modifications to maintain mobility, will my family have the bandwidth to support me as I age in place? Alternatively, many of us are caring and supporting relatives that are ageing. Just as they are considering these important life decisions for themselves, we also need to have a sound understanding of how to support someone who is aging in place. Studies have shown that when individuals can age-in-place, they have some of the best health outcomes.

One such study and/or program is the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing program co-developed by Dr. Sarah Szanton called CAPABLE. “CAPABLE is a person-directed, home-based program that addresses both function and healthcare expenses. The four to five-month program integrates services from an occupational therapist (OT), a registered nurse (RN), and a handy worker who work together with the older adult to set goals and direct-action plans that change behaviors to improve health, independence, and safety. Participants learn new skills, exercises, and how to work with additional tools/equipment/home modifications to improve function and safety. CAPABLE focuses on prevention and problem-solving, building skills that participants can use in the future.” The program has been shown to produce positive outcomes including:

• Independence, safety, and health
• Lowering healthcare cost
• Enhancing motivation and self-efficacy
• Reducing health disparities
• Reducing symptoms of depression

As you start the journey of planning for the future, some questions that you need to answer now include:

• Can we provide personal care?
• Can we assist them with chores?
• Can we shop for them and prepare nutritious meals?
• Are they properly insured and who will take care of their finances when it becomes unfeasible for them to do it themselves?
• Do they have Long-Term Care insurance or can they self-insure?
• How will they manage their healthcare, appointments, and medication – and how will they get there?
• Is their home safe and does it have the necessary safety features to keep them safe – and if not, who will pay for this?

I recommend researching this information now, including how to make you or your loved one comfortable at home as they age in place. LifeThrive LLC sells an array of products with outstanding customer service that you may need to assist with this endeavor.

The National Institute on Aging has some incredible resources to consult to help you manage this process.

 References:

Aging in Place: Growing Older at Home | National Institute on Aging (nih.gov)