If you’re thinking about how you want to spend retirement, it’s probably safe to assume that home is where you want to live. Of course, living at home doesn’t always mean staying in the same house where you’ve spent the last 20 years. It can also mean moving to an active adult community, or even downsizing to apartment living. No matter where home is to you, modern technology and supports like in-home care, make aging in place an option that more and more retirees are choosing!
So, what is aging in place? It basically means growing old in the comfort of your own home independently and safely.
Did you know that 90% of seniors want to age at home? It’s really no wonder why! But, in case you needed convincing, here are the top 5 benefits of aging in place:
1. Staying Connected With Family & Friends
Socializing is good for you! It keeps you from feeling lonely, keeps your mind sharp, and makes you happy. And, being near your friends and family will lower your risk of developing certain conditions! Not to mention, it’s just great to have loved ones around to count on once in a while.
2. Aging In Place Is Comfortable
Retirees who choose aging in place are choosing comfort! Any place you call home will be familiar and adapted to your personal needs and preferences. What’s more comfortable than that?
3. Aging In Place Costs Less
As you age, you might find it harder to do daily tasks like cleaning around the house or cooking full, healthy meals. Maybe you’ll start feeling a little forgetful or have a harder time moving about. If any of this is the case, don’t start touring nursing homes just yet! For those who don’t need constant medical attention, in-home care or other supports like adult day care are great supplements for safely aging in place! And, it’s definitely cheaper! The national average daily cost for a home health aide is $169. The daily cost of a nursing home is nearly double!
4. Aging In Place Helps With Alzheimer’s & Other Memory-Related Conditions
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. The majority of those affected are over the age of 65. With memory-related conditions, aging in place can be helpful as it provides familiarity and consistency. Also, staying within close proximity to friends and loved ones is very helpful! In fact, studies have shown that dementia can be slowed by up to 70% when the affected adult remains social and connected with loved ones!
5. Independence
Aging in place allows seniors to maintain their independence, which in turn, helps them maintain a positive attitude, feelings of self-worth, and an optimistic outlook on life. Feeling in control over one’s personal life can reduce stress and strengthen resistance to illness!
If you’re aging in place…
Staying in your own home throughout retirement is ideal for you and your family! If you need help finding support or other resources that can help with safe aging in place, then start here:
Senior Resource Home Care Directory
Senior Resource Adult Day Care Directory
Aging In Place Resources: CAPS and More!
Need something else?
Whether it’s time for a change, or you’re just doing some research, we can help! At SeniorResource.com, we believe in the empowerment of older adults and their caregivers through knowledge. But, we also understand that at this juncture of life, time is your most valuable asset. So, why waste it doing another internet search? Senior Resource is your one-stop spot for all things retirement. We do the work and find all the facts, just so you don’t have to!
SeniorResource.com exists to provide aging adults, retirees, and caregivers with applicable, and educational content, relevant to the over 55 community. As such, we address topics like senior housing, nursing care, and aging-in-place.
Looking for more great articles? Then start here!
Need help with retirement planning? Then check out Bob Carlson’s Retirement Watch!
