A February 2024 Forbes Health article reported on the increasing number of senior citizens who have chosen to live at home instead of moving to a nursing home or a residential home. According to the article, 92 percent of older adults prefer living at home. Fortunately, living at home can be a reality for this demographic by creating a supportive environment.
Many seniors choose to stay at home as they age to remain independent and have some control over their personal space. They also feel they can care for themselves and stay safe in their neighborhoods. Finally, many prefer living in quiet residential neighborhoods.
Seniors can hold onto their independence, autonomy, and feelings of security through strategies that make the home environment safe. A safe home environment requires home modifications, such as removing potential traps like sliding rugs, which can prevent accidents. It also necessitates moving floor cables so that they run along the ceilings. Widening doorways, installing handrails/grab bars, non-slipping floor rugs, and installing entrance and exit ramps are other modifications that make residences safe. Seniors can obtain assistance through the National Association of Home Builders' certified aging-in-place specialists (CAPS), which conducts an assessment and provides recommendations.
Another tool that has made aging in place possible is technology, including telehealth platforms. Telehealth has allowed seniors access to virtual consultations, digital health platforms, and remote monitoring. It enables them to get healthcare advice, manage their chronic conditions, and contact healthcare professionals from their homes.
In addition to telehealth, seniors have a range of apps that allow them to stay in contact with family members. Other apps like PillDrill enable seniors to track and manage their medications. Resmed, for instance, provides PAP devices (sleep apnea) and portable oxygen concentrators that connect to physicians through a cellular network so that seniors can receive remote monitoring.
Next, seniors can maintain autonomy by using ride-sharing services and community-based public transportation if they no longer drive. Ride-sharing services, community-based transportation services, and local business partnerships have made getting out and about possible for seniors who love to be on the go but cannot drive independently.
Wellness programs are also essential to helping seniors age in place. More than providing seniors with an outlet to exercise, these programs encourage seniors to thrive instead of survive. The more comprehensive programs contain fitness classes, mental support, and nutritional guidance. Further, these programs cater to the needs of older adults.
Moreover, individuals can plan for this phase of their lives through various financial planning tools. These tools encourage seniors to plan for long-term care, understand insurance coverage, and make informed decisions regarding future living arrangements.
Finally, seniors have their community to help them remain engaged socially. These communities include virtual ones, online classes, and social networking platforms where they can socially connect with their peers and young people. These connections can contribute to the person's well-being and mental wellness and can happen in person or over the virtual landscape. Zoom, Google Meet, WhatsApp, and other tech tools allow seniors to meet up with others, even if they are homebound. Furthermore, one January Healthline article also suggests older people consider having a pet, which can also be a source of company.
