Aging in place is when an elderly person stays in their home instead of moving into an assisted or independent living facility. You still have access to the mental, physical, and medical support you need, but you do not need to worry about leaving life as you know it behind.
The Mental Health Benefits of Aging in Place
- Familiar Surroundings
Moving into an assisted living or even an independent community can be stressful. You need to get used to your new neighbors and floor plan. The move is especially stressful for seniors who have spent years making memories in their homes.
When you opt to age in place, you are staying in a familiar environment. You do not have to feel like you are “starting over” in a new home or neighborhood. Aging in place also makes it easier to stay connected to family and friends who live near your home.
- Assistance With Independence
Aging in place allows your loved ones and caregivers to assist with tasks such as housekeeping and transportation. Your assistance depends on your needs, but you can take comfort in knowing support is there when you need it.
You can still take care of tasks such as dressing, bathing, and cooking until assistance is required. This provides help when you need it without compromising your independence. Furthermore, you can stick to your routine, only making changes when necessary.
- Cost-Effective Solution
Money is the last thing you should be worried about as you grow older. Unfortunately, moving into an assisted living or independent community requires money. There is no guarantee the move is fully covered by your insurance, and that is if the move is even covered at all.
Your mortgage may be fully paid by now, or you may be living with loved ones who take care of the payments. Why add more stress to your life when you can stay at home? The money you save can be used towards other medical expenses and leisure activities.
Steps To Take When Aging In Place
Aging in the comfort of your own home is not impossible, but it may require a few changes to ensure your lifestyle is easier and safer.
- Ongoing Support
The first thing you must do is ensure you have ongoing support from your family, friends, and caregivers. You can live independently while still accepting help when you need it, but you want to ensure that help is available and reliable.
- Lower Furniture
Next, look into furniture that is lower to the floor, such as your couch, recliner, and bed. This makes it easier to stand, sit, and lie down as needed. You may also decide to switch out pieces such as your dining table and chairs, nightstand, and dresser for easier access to your essentials.
- Mobility Assistance
Mobility assistance, such as grab bars, wheelchair ramps, and tub cuts, makes a difference when aging in place. Safe Home Pro provides those features for your home. You can also look into toilevators, wall-mounted shower seats, wider doorways, and wheelchair lifts.
Aging in place is beneficial for your mental health because it allows you to maintain your connections and independence. You also have the option of remaining in a familiar environment. With ongoing support, appropriate furniture, and mobility assistance, you can remain home as you transition into retirement.
