Age in Place & Senior Transitioning

Aging in place is a term used to describe a person living in whatever residence they would choose, for as long as they are able as they grow older. This includes being able to have any services or supports they need over time as their needs change.  

There are many aspects to think about—if staying in your home is important to you, it’s still vital that you consider how to stay safe, get around, and manage your daily activities. Consider the following:

• How will you get around at home? Are you having trouble walking or moving around the hose? Could that be made better by something like a walker or electric scooter? Is your home layout compatible with these kinds of devices? Our team can help you evaluate your situation and your home environment.
• How will you get around town? If you’re no longer driving, do you have access to public transportation, taxis, or ride-sharing services? Are you comfortable using these services? Do you have a friend, relative, or neighbor who can help you complete errands or make it to doctor’s appointments? Let’s talk about your situation and your options.
• Is your environment safe? Are there concerns about crime in your neighborhood? Do you live alone and worry that if you’re sick or hurt there won’t be anyone around to help? Is an emergency alert system appropriate for you? Our team will talk to you about these issues and more, to make sure your plan is sound.
• Are there changes you can make to your current home that would make your home easier and safer to live in? Don’t underestimate the value of simple changes like a ramp at your door, grab bars/handles in the bathtub or shower, non-slip flooring options, or comfortable handles on doors or faucets that make it easier to go about your day-to-day life. We can make recommendations for small changes that can go a long way, and help you find the right resources to have this work completed.

It might feel like this is a list of reasons NOT to Age in Place, but that’s not true! By considering these options and planning for them, our team can help you find the ideal plan for you, your loved ones, and your environment.

It’s important to think about how you plan to pay for the help you need. Some types of assistance may cost a lot, but others may be free. Some could be covered by Medicare or private health insurance, and others will not be. Every individual’s situation is unique, but it’s certainly possible that paying for a few services out of pocket could cost less than moving into an independent living, assisted living, or long-term care facility. Reach out to our team to talk about your goals, wishes, and options.