"Aging in place" is growing older without having to move. Aging in place with supportive services is one of the most desirable ways of aging. Aging in place can achieve efficiencies enabled by the customized care. Successful aging in place approaches focus on the provision of the most appropriate care for the specific individual. Thus avoiding wasted costs brought on by a "generic" care model.

An aging in place scenario, creates housing and health care options to provide support as defined by an individualís wishes and efforts to live independently. Aging in place can work best when it is employed as a part of a comprehensive plan for retirement and aging. A key step in implementing aging in place is to make your home aging friendly. As we age we don't hear so well, we sometimes forget or get confused and we can even outlive doctor's predictions about our longevity. So as long as we persist in growing older, why not arrange our homes to accommodate our reality. Incorporate memory triggers into the way we arrange cabinets and counters, add soft fabrics to muffle background noises, change appliances to better accommodate our short-comings.

Here is a book to help you make your homes senior-friendly.

Also visit: the Universal Design Living Laboratory:A National Demonstration Home at http://www.UDLL.com by Rosemarie Rossetti, PhD

If you want to learn more visit our Aging in place section .

Once you have an idea of the changes needed in the home, it is time to discuss the changes with a contractor/builder in your area. Below is a list of of such providers in your area.