For many older people facing the realities of aging, a commonly heard wish is “I want to stay in my own home!” Well the good news is that with the right help, you may certainly be able to do just that. Staying in your own home as you get older is referred to as “aging in place”. While living independently as a senior citizen is not the easiest task, it is absolutely possible, with the right preparations.
Planning ahead is difficult because no one can predict the future and consider the ways in which their needs might change. But the first step is to think about what kinds of help you might need or want in the future. Maybe you live alone, so there is no one available at all times to potentially help you when you need it. Maybe you don’t need help yourself, but you live with a spouse or a family member who does. Everyone has their own unique situations.
One way to begin planning is to look at any illnesses you or your spouse may have. Things like diabetes or emphysema or dementia have their own special circumstances that require different actions for care. Talk with your doctor about how these health issues may make it harder for someone to get around or be taken care of. Learn how to get the support you need to stay in your own home.
You can get almost any type of help you want in your own home. You can get more information about services through your local Area Agency on Aging, local or state offices on aging or social services, or nearby senior center.
One area many older people struggle with is personal care. Tasks like bathing, washing your hair, dressing, and cooking meals become more difficult as the aging process brings changes to mobility and dexterity. Maybe a friend or relative could help, or you could hire a trained aide to come assist you for a short amount of time each day.
Chores like house cleaning, gardening, grocery shopping and laundry can become burdensome as well. Some grocery stores or drug stores will take your order over the phone and arrange for delivery of your items. There is also the possibility of hiring cleaning or landscaping services to come to your home. Some housekeepers will assist with laundry as well, and some dry cleaners will arrange for the pickup and delivery of your clothes.
Another common concern is the ability to get around, both at home and in town. Trouble walking can be helped with any number of mobility aids, such as a cane, walker, or electric chair or scooter. For many people, these are covered by Medicare when necessary. If you are no longer driving a car, reach out to senior centers to find if there are any free or low cost public transportation or taxi services in your area. Maybe a relative, friend, or neighbor can take you along with them while they run errands, or perhaps do yours for you.