Even though most seniors are going to need some assistance over the years, many of them would prefer to age in place. Living at home can be very important, but your aging loved one will most likely need some help if he or she plans to age in place. Here’s a quick glimpse at what the statistics say about aging in place and a few simple steps you can take to ensure your loved one remains safe and secure in his or her own home.
Aging in Place by the Numbers
In 2018, the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) conducted a national survey asking seniors about their thoughts on aging in place. According to that survey, nearly 90 percent of adults over the age of 65 responded they would prefer to stay in their homes as they grow older. The survey also revealed just over 75 percent of seniors wanted to remain within their communities for as long as possible. Of those who wouldn’t be able to age in place, 32 percent said they would consider alternative living situations in their own communities, such as sharing a home with family members or living in an adjacent building.
Potential Risks of Aging in Place
Millions of seniors are injured in their own homes every year, and many of those injuries are life-threatening. Slip-and-fall accidents are particularly common among the elderly, and those incidents often take place when no one else is around. Some seniors also develop cognitive issues as they age, which can lead to problems such as forgetting to take their medications or leaving burners on when they’re done cooking. Luckily, many of those risks can easily be avoided as long as you plan ahead.
A home caregiver can help your loved one age in place in safety and comfort. Senior home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
Starting an Honest Conversation
If your loved one has said he or she would like to age in place, it’s time to start an open and honest conversation with him or her. During that conversation, you’ll need to discuss important details, such as what type of help your loved one is going to require in the coming years and how his or her finances are going to hold up. Even if your loved one seems healthy and quick-witted right now, there may come a time when he or she is going to require some assistance.
Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality senior home care. Lincoln families trust Home Care Assistance to help their elderly loved ones age in place safely and comfortably.
Assisting Your Loved One
At the very least, make sure your loved one remains socially engaged if he or she is going to continue living at home. Ongoing social isolation can have a huge impact on cognitive health and greatly increase the risk of many different mental health disorders. Regularly calling your loved one and scheduling weekly visits allows you to keep a close eye on his or her overall health and wellbeing. You should also consider working with a professional caregiver who can keep your loved one stimulated and help with everyday tasks such as making meals and light housekeeping.
For families living in Lincoln, respite care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Home Care Assistance, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home. Call us at (916) 226-3737 today to talk to one of our compassionate Care Managers about our high-quality home care services.