Aging in place is an affordable alternative for the elderly to enjoy their twilight years without having to move to a senior care home. Instead, it is the choice to continue living in one’s home independently, regardless of ability level, age, or income.
Just some of the benefits of aging in place include lowered costs, heightened sense of independence, minimized feelings of isolation, familiar surroundings, and the option of custom home modifications and live-in care.
Because the benefits of this aging option are far more appealing than those associated with senior care homes, it makes perfect sense why more seniors are choosing aging in place.
But even so, if you’re hoping to avoid a senior care home and keep your independence intact as you age, you’ll still need to prepare your home. As an aging senior, there are a few safety concerns.
So, we’ve listed some practical ways to prepare your home.
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Invest In Fall Prevention
Unfortunately, falls are a prominent concern for aging individuals who become frailer over time. What’s more concerning is that a single fall incident can lead to severe and even crippling injuries; falls can decrease overall mobility and harm the quality of life for senior individuals.
Fortunately, fall prevention efforts can minimize the risks for elderly individuals.
Remove any clutter and tripping hazards from your home, install night lights for additional guidance in critical areas of the home, and install railings in the bathroom, kitchen, hallway, and near steps. Moreover, add non-slip flooring to the bathroom and kitchen area.
Opt For A Medical Alert System
Medical alert systems are an excellent innovation that’s making it possible for elderly individuals to age safely in place.
These systems connect the individual to immediate medical assistance. The devices are able to detect falls and a variety of health concerns like stroke, heart attack, and much more. When the system detects a concern, it automatically alerts dispatchers to send medical assistance right away, acting like a guardian angel.
When choosing a medical alert system, look at a list of top-rated systems to determine which is most suitable for you.
Install A Home Monitoring System
In addition to a medical alert system, it’s also wise to invest in home monitoring.
More often than not, you can ask your home security provider to install additional monitoring devices throughout your home and have these connected to your standard security system.
With this, you’ll be monitored by your medical alert system and your security company.
Modify The Bathroom
As mentioned above, fall prevention is crucial when aging in place. But railing isn’t enough; it’s wise to modify your bathroom for absolute safety. Most accidents take place in bathrooms due to the design and lack of accessibility for seniors.
Invest in grab bars, a walk-in tub, a raised toilet seat, and a shower seat.
Consider Smart Home Tech
Smart home tech can make the decision to age in place a lot more convenient. With this range of tech, you can find smart home assistants like automated vacuum devices, automated light controls, door locks, and so much more.
Even though this category of tech requires a bit of upfront investment, it’s definitely worth it for seniors who choose to age comfortably at home.
Consider Live-In Care
Live-in care is an affordable option for frail elderly individuals to continue living at home, even if they have additional healthcare needs.
Your live-in carer will help you maintain independence and keep your home in order as you age. Moreover, you’ll have constant companionship and support when you need it.
Opting for live-in care is the best way to avoid a senior care facility when your health starts to deteriorate along with age.
Aging in place is a retirement option that offers seniors so many worthwhile benefits. But even so, it’s essential to modify your home to make it safe and suitable. Whether you need live-in care or not, it’s also important to speak to your family and friends about your decision to age in place for additional support.
With that said, if you live in a home with stairs and can’t afford to install a stair lift, it’s wise to consider adjusting your home so that you only need the ground level. Otherwise, you could also consider downgrading your home by moving to a single-story property where the risk of stairs doesn’t have to be a worry.
Nevertheless, before you decide to age in place, it’s also wise to look into the option of senior care homes. Even though these facilities are a bit pricey, there are a few benefits worth considering.
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