What is Aging in Place?

There’s no place like home, and that can be especially true as you get older. Many senior adults choose to stay in their current homes – with a few adjustments. This option is referred to as aging in place.

What is aging in place, exactly? To age in place, you will adjust the layout of your home so that it is as safe and hazard-free as possible. It also can include planning for assistance with finances, insurance or anything else you need help managing.

While it requires a bit of work on the front end, aging in place is a great option for older adults who do not wish to make the transition to a new home. Here’s everything you need to know about this option for retirement.

Preparing Your Home

While aging in place looks different for different people, there are a few common safety concerns that most people address. These adjustments prevent slipping and falling and make all areas of the house more accessible. This may include adding grab bars in the shower or tub, upgrading to non-skid floors, and creating a floor plan that is entirely flat – that is, with no raised surfaces to trip over. Special handles that are easier to turn can be added to faucets. Depending on the needs of the person living there, a ramp at the entrance may also be needed.

Some of these adjustments are quick and easy changes. Others are more time-consuming renovations. It’s important to evaluate your budget and what would be possible (or desirable) to undertake.

Making Arrangements

Aging in place gives many older adults added independence, but that doesn’t mean they don’t still need assistance at times. That’s why it’s important to plan ahead for things like transportation. How will you travel to doctor’s appointments? What about weekly grocery trips?  Some people arrange for a little added assistance during the day. You can also look into public transportation options in the area. An electric scooter may also be beneficial.

It’s also a good idea to enlist help with important tasks, such as taking daily medications. Some older adults receive in-person assistance or reminders, and others use technology. Many devices can be programmed with reminders to take your daily vitamins and medications. Technology can be a helpful option when it comes to making day-to-day financial tasks easier. Most banks allow online, automatic bill pay so you don’t have to remember every time.

Additional Options

If you require frequent assistance, aging in place may still be an option. Some older adults choose to hire part- or full-time help for a number of daily tasks. Others have the option of living with a family member, such as a sibling or adult child, who can help.  A third option is to choose home ownership in a retirement community. You can still live independently but receive additional assistance as you need it. For instance, you may be living independently at present, but would like the option for an in-home nurse in the next five years.

Experience Independent Living at Advent Christian Village

What started as a question of “What is aging in place?” may lead you to ask the bigger question, “What would aging in place look like for me?” Whatever home you choose for retirement, it should be personalized for your specific needs.

There’s no such thing as one-size-fits-all when it comes to retirement. That’s why Advent Christian Village has options for every phase of your retirement years. Our independent living homes are ready-to-go, which means you don’t have to worry about costly renovations. We make it easy to expand the care you receive as you need it. It’s not just a home for right now – it’s a home for life.

Interested in learning more about life at Advent Christian Village? Schedule a tour today to experience everything our beautiful campus has to offer.

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