What Does Aging In Place Mean
Aging in place is a term used to describe a senior person choosing to live in their own home as they get older instead of assisted living.
Most seniors prefer to age in place as it allows them to live comfortably in surroundings that are familiar to them. Not only will they be living in their own home but they will be in a familiar community with friends and neighbor nearby even if their family members are far away.
There is a certain comfort in this familiarity that makes aging in place the preferred option for most seniors.
When Aging In Place Is A Good Idea
Certain changes are inevitable as we age. This can take many forms. For some this may be in the form of mobility restrictions, for others it may take some form of mental decline. These things must be taken into consideration when deciding to age in place.
Aging in place is a good idea if your loved one lives in a one-story home. The risk of falls and fractures increases tremendously as a person gets older.
Aging in place also works well if they have family or friends nearby who can be counted on to help when needed. Of course, living with family with the best scenario of all but that’s not always possible for many reasons.
Having easy access to transportation, shopping and other everyday resources can make it easier for seniors to age in place.
When Aging In Place Doesn't Make Sense
Sometimes, aging in place is just not an option. This may be because of any of the following reasons:
• The home is not senior-friendly
• Your loved one is wheelchair bound or has other mobility restrictions
• There’s no easy access to transportation or grocery shopping
• Your family or other potential caregivers live too far away
• Your loved one doesn’t know too many people in the community who they can call on for help
• They have started to forget things
• Cooking nutritious meals is starting to become a problem
• They need advanced medical care but the home cannot accommodate either the equipment or a live-in caregiver
• They are beginning to feel increasingly more isolated and depressed
Is Assisted Living better Than Aging In Place
Neither one is better than the other in general. Both have their own benefits and downsides. Aging in place may be a good option for seniors who are more independent and who have the necessary support system around them.
However, assisted living is a better option for seniors who need more advanced care or those who do not have a proper support system in place.
Which Is The Right Choice For You Or Your Loved One
The right choice for you or your loved one is highly dependent on your personal circumstances. There are definitely certain health and social risks to aging in place and it’s a fact that most of our homes are not equipped to handle the special requirements involved in aging in place.
On the other hand, assisted living facilities in Palos Verdes are equipped to handle the challenges of aging. From designing the premises to developing menus and hiring staff trained in geriatric care, these communities keep the requirements of seniors in the forefront.
An assisted living facility is a safer and healthier option if you or your loved one does not have the support that’s no necessary as you get older.
