Growing old happens, and one goal many of us have is to live in peace and comfort as we age. What better way to do that than prepping for the future? Aging in place allows seniors to prepare for the expected and unexpected by planning for lifestyle changes, health concerns, and future goals — all while living in the comfort of their own homes. So is aging in place right for you? Let’s take a look at what it entails to give you a clear understanding of what to expect and how to plan for peace of mind as you age.

Aging In Place — What Is It?

Many seniors dream of having the opportunity to age in place. In general, it refers to the ability of older people to remain in their homes and communities as they age. Rather than relocating to another institutional setting, such as a nursing home, seniors can thrive independently at home while staying on top of their goals, smoothly adapting to changes as they come, and setting a foundation that reduces the burden on loved ones and close friends. 

Why Do Seniors Prioritize Aging in Place?

There are plenty of good reasons to prioritize independent living at an older age. As you age, familiarity and comfort become even more critical as completing important tasks may become more challenging. Planning ahead and being in the comfort of your own home can make life that much easier, simplifying things for you and your family while still allowing you to spend time with yourself and the ones you love. Many other reasons seniors prioritize aging in place include:

• Independence – Physical and cognitive decline can make life much more difficult for seniors and heighten the importance of relying on others. Aging in place can help seniors feel more in control of their lives.
• Familiar settings, routines, and environments – Your home is one of the more important places in your life, especially for someone who’s spent most of their life there.
• Plenty of health benefits – Moving out of your home and into a facility can also have negative health benefits. There’s an emotional toll of leaving home, which can accelerate physical and cognitive decline. Additionally, there’s a higher risk of infection in an environment with many more individuals coming in and out.
• Cost savings – Many assisted living facilities and nursing homes are expensive to live in. Receiving care from home can save you and your family tens of thousands of dollars.

Combating the Challenges of Aging

Aging brings along many challenges that make it difficult to perform daily tasks or live comfortably. Some are more gradual, and some occur rapidly, but things like a decline in eyesight, reduced muscle mass, and diminished endurance can significantly impact your life. Aging in place is here to simplify those challenges by planning for them all and keeping you ready for any scenario. As a result, you and your personal healthcare advocate will work together on the following:

 

• Wellness and Personal Care – We take a holistic view of your health and wellness. Our planning adapts to your specific needs as you age or health challenges emerge
• Health Care – Recommend a variety of in-home services, review current medical conditions, and navigate through various healthcare systems to help you make informed decisions.
• Support Families and Loved Ones – Aging in place involves a variety of supports and resources that work together to keep an older adult at home through changes that may occur. Family and loved ones have a trusted professional to help navigate the challenges that may come with aging.
• Protecting Your Assets – Aging in-place programs can provide a financial benefit to help protect your assets and connect you with financial counselors to help you better protect and grow your wealth for the present and future.

How to Plan Ahead for Aging in Place

Planning ahead can be difficult, but a key to aging in place is having the system in place before you need it. Over the years, your needs and desires may change, especially when you factor in changes in your family or living environment. But you should definitely plan ahead for aging in place, especially if you know it’ll be a priority. A first step can be to think about the kinds of help you might need in the future. Additionally, think about any illnesses or conditions you or your family members may have. Discuss them with a doctor and ask about the trajectory of their situation and what will work best in the future. With proper planning, you can take advantage of aging in the comfort of your home.

Age in Place With Friends Life Care

Technology has made aging in place easier than ever before, so don’t miss out on the care you deserve. Aging in place provides you or a loved one with compassionate care or assistance with long-term care planning in Southeastern Pennsylvania and Delaware, all from the comfort of home. If you’re a good candidate for aging in place or want to live out your golden years in peace and comfort, turn to Friends Life Care. Our customized holistic wellness and aging in place solutions give you plenty of options to live the life you deserve.