The World Health Organization predicts a significant rise in the population of those aged 60 or older by 2030. For many older adults, the decision between staying in their homes or transitioning to assisted living plays a crucial role in their well-being and aging journey.
Studies show that a majority of older adults wish to maintain their residence and community connections until it becomes challenging to do so. According to a recent AARP study, approximately 75% of individuals over 50 express a desire to stay in their homes for as long as possible.
Choosing to age in place involves residing in one's familiar home or community as one grows older. This concept reflects a shared aspiration for independence and a reliance on family and community support when needed. While aging in place is a common desire, safety, mobility, and daily activities can raise concerns for older adults and their families. This article aims to provide guidance and assistance to help individuals continue independent living with careful planning and support.
Planning ahead for aging in place
The very best time to think of how to age in place is before you need a lot of care. Planning ahead allows you to make crucial choices while you are still able.
The initial step is to think of the kinds of aid you require now and might desire in the future. You can learn more about home-based care and other services in your neighborhood and discover what they cost. Preparation ahead likewise gives you time to set up your home to fulfill your requirements as you age.
Another step is to think about any health problems, such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease, that you or your partner may have. Learn about how the health problems might make it hard for somebody to get around or look after themselves in the future. Talk with us if you have any questions by calling directly at (512) 883-2365.
Talk with your family, good friends, and other caregivers about what assistance is needed for you to stay in your home Be reasonable and strategy to revisit the decision as your requirements alter gradually.
Assistance for aging in your home
Home-based care includes health, personal, and other support services to assist you remain at home and live as independently as possible. In-home services might be short-term-- for someone who is recovering from an operation, for instance-- or long-lasting, for individuals who need ongoing aid.
In most cases, home-based support is supplied in your home by informal caretakers, such as relative, friends, and next-door neighbors. It can also be supplemented by official caregivers and community services.
Assist you can receive at home includes:
Individual care: Help with everyday activities, also called "activities of day-to-day living," consisting of bathing, dressing, grooming, using the toilet, eating, and moving around-- for instance, rising and into a chair
Home chores: Housecleaning, lawn work, grocery shopping, laundry, and similar chores around your home
Meals: Shopping for food and preparing healthy meals
Money management: Tasks such as paying costs and completing health insurance types
Healthcare: Help with many elements of healthcare, including providing medications, caring for wounds, assisting with medical devices, and offering physical treatment
Transport: Assistance getting around, such as trips to the doctor's workplace or grocery store
Safety: Home security functions and assist in case of a fall or other emergency
Making your home safe
There are a variety of methods to make your surroundings much safer and simpler to handle so they satisfy your needs as you age. Go through your home space by room to recognize prospective problems and security problems. First, remedy any instant dangers, such as loose stair railings and bad lighting, and then deal with other ways to ensure you will be as safe as possible in the house.
Are you stressed that making changes might be costly? You may have the ability to get assist paying for repair work and safety updates to your home. Contact your state real estate finance company, social services department, neighborhood advancement groups, or the federal government for financial assistance programs and discount rates.
Resources for aging in place
If remaining in your home is necessary to you, you may have issues about getting around, being safe, and staying connected. A few of these activities end up being more tough as you age. The resources listed below can help you discover services.
Reach out to people you understand. Household, good friends, and neighbors are the biggest source of help for lots of older people. They may be able to drive you to physician's consultations, aid with errands and tasks, or just keep you business. Talk with those near you about the best way to get what you need. If you are physically able, think about trading services with a buddy or next-door neighbor. For instance, one might do the grocery shopping, and the other might cook dinner.
Be prepared for a medical emergency situation. If you have a serious allergy or medical requirement, talk with your physician about whether you ought to get a medical alert ID bracelet or locket. You may likewise consider an emergency medical alert system, which responds to medical and other emergency situations through an electronic monitor that a person wears. The monitor informs emergency situation personnel when an individual ends up being lost, falls, or requires urgent medical help.
At Home Helpers Home Care of Austin, we prioritize your loved one's well-being by tailoring our services to meet their unique needs. As a prominent senior care provider nationally, we specialize in delivering extensive support for various conditions and challenges. Our flexible services and personalized schedules cater to diverse preferences—whether seeking a few hours of assistance or continuous care.
Through our complimentary In-Home Care Assessment, we deeply delve into your requirements, ensuring a thorough discussion about the tailored services we offer to enhance your loved one's quality of life and ensure your peace of mind.