Aging in Place is a Choice

Aging in place refers to the act of living in your home as you age, for as long as you are able. There are many factors which can affect your ability to do so, including (but not limited to) physical abilities, environment, support (family or community), comfort, health care and finances. The amount of time you can live safely in your home can be extended by providing solutions to deal with the most common issues you may face as you grow older.

Why is it Important?

We’re all going to age. The situation the United States, Australia and parts of Europe find are now becoming acutely aware of is that it is going to happen to a lot of people at one time. The Baby Boomer generation is really, really big and are not the only people their aging will affect; it is going to have an impact on our society as a whole. For a little insight, think about this: In 2020, our 60+ population will go from 43.8 million to 73.7 million.

In a nutshell, we not only need to make sure we are living the best, most comfortable life we can as we age, but also that we do what we are able to reduce the stress it could place on our families and those in our community.

Your Aging in Place Plan

You’ve probably heard the saying, “We don’t plan to fail, we fail to plan.” Well, it’s especially true in this case. Having a plan (and following it) means you have prepared yourself, and your household, to deal with the issues you are going to face as you age. There are many resources available to you to assist with developing a solid plan, from Certified Aging in Place Specialists, to financial planning worksheets, to long-term, multi-faceted care arrangements. These and other resources can be brought in to play to assist you in creating a detailed, holistic approach to your aging in place initiative.

The focus of your plan should be control; control of your environment, your care, your dignity, your comfort and your quality of life. Creating a plan that enables you to stay in your personal space and supports your security and independence should be your primary goal.