Dr. Eboni Green
April 15, 2021
As we age, we all have to decide how we would like to live out our golden years. Fortunately, Marketwatch explains there are a lot more options at your disposal now compared to in the past, as Baby Boomers are redefining retirement. For many seniors, the preference is to age in place.
Aging in place means living independently in your own home. Because of some medical and technological innovations, spending your golden years at home is more manageable than ever. Below, Caregiver Support Services shares some great benefits of aging in place and a few things that you should consider when making your choice.
When choosing to age in place, you may decide that your home will not be accessible enough for you or that it will be too large to tend as you age. Another option is downsizing to a smaller, more affordable home. When you do this, there are key things that you will need to research before you make the move.
Knowing how much money you will get for selling your home can make a huge difference in what you do next. An estimate for your property’s value will provide you with enough information to get started.
Sometimes smaller homes don’t mean less expensive. It is important to determine what you can afford, research your area, and find out what the cost is for a smaller, more accessible home in the area where you would like to live.
Knowing how much you will need for a down payment on your next home in your area is vital when deciding what is within your retirement budget. If you plan to make a move to a more manageable home, make sure you make some calculations so you know what to expect to pay when closing on the sale.
One way to stay independent in your home as you age is to make upgrades to support your needs. The cost involved in renovating can be fairly low when compared to other options for senior living, such as moving into a facility.
Upgrades to your house can be as small as adding stabilizing bars to help you get around your house without falling. You can also upgrade the lighting, and clear the walking areas of any obstructions to protect against falls. In addition, consider structural changes like widening doorways or adding a ramp where there are stairs, making your home more wheelchair accessible.
As you age, memory loss is a significant possibility. The familiarity of your own home will help to guard against memory loss. If you have a history of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease in your family, aging in place will help stave off the negative effects of those conditions. For example, some studies have shown that familiar smells can trigger memories, making your home and all its comforts an ideal place to live out your golden years.
Additionally, if you have a strong community where you are living, keeping those connections can significantly reduce the progression of memory loss. Social interaction can help preserve your mind, so keeping those connections is vital to your quality of life.
If you are someone experiencing issues with activities of daily living, such as grooming and eating, or if you need help with things like taking medications, an assisted living community could be the best solution for you. These facilities offer you support paired with self-sufficiency.
There are more housing choices available to seniors than ever. Think through your needs and budget to find the right one for you. You can age in place, and define it however you like.
For more great information on how seniors can stay safe, healthy, and happy in their golden years, visit Caregiver Support Services online.
