If given an option, many seniors would prefer aging at home as opposed to moving to an assisted living facility to spend their golden years. Aging from the comfort of your own home has its advantages. At the same time, it’s not a decision that seniors should make lightly due to their growing physical, mental and emotional needs. The following guidelines can help you decide if aging at home is a practical option for you.
Is Aging at Home Right for You?
It’s only natural for seniors to want to stay in familiar home surroundings as they age. By planning ahead, you can make necessary adjustments that will make aging at home a more viable option. The following factors should be taken into account when considering your living accommodations:
- Personal health and fitness (medical conditions, mental health, emotional well-being)
- Home age, location, safety and accessibility
- Support system
- Financial situation
If you live on the outskirts of town, you should consider transportation to and from shopping centers, doctors’ offices, pharmacies, etc., for when you can no longer drive on your own. As you age, you may need to modify your home to enhance safety or facilitate mobility. Installing grab bars in bathrooms, for example, can reduce the risk of falls and adding an entry door ramp will make it easier for wheelchair travel. By setting aside funds for home modifications and improvements now, seniors can be better prepared for aging in place when the time comes.
Having a dependable support system that you can count on for help when needed will make it easier for you to age at home. You should also be open to receiving help from outside senior care services should the need arise. With the help of family, friends and professional caregivers, seniors can continue to live a happy and productive lifestyle from the comfort of their abode.
What Kind of Home Services Can Seniors Receive?
Professional caregivers offer home services to help seniors age at home comfortably and safely. The following services can make aging at home a viable option for a senior’s golden years:
Personal Care – assistance with personal hygiene tasks, which includes bathing, hair washing, dressing, cooking, eating, etc.
Home Care – assistance with house cleaning, laundry, shopping, minor handyman projects and gardening.
Health Care – assistance with medical needs to include transportation to doctor’s appointments, taking medications on time, getting regular exercise, etc.
Financial Management – assistance with paying bills and upkeep of financial records.
By helping to coordinate personal, home and health care tasks, Friendship at Home caregivers make it easier to age at home comfortably. In assuming these responsibilities, we want you to enjoy a more relaxed, carefree lifestyle in your golden years. With Friendship at Home, you benefit from a strong and dependable support system that makes aging at home a safe and enjoyable experience.