It’s a decision that rarely has an easy answer. Should you age in place in your home or move to an assisted living facility? Most seniors face that question at some point in their lives. As you age, it’s likely that you may have increasing difficulty performing basic living functions. While you may want to stay in your home, it’s tempting to think that life may be easier with the support that comes from assisted living.The decision can be even more difficult for children and other loved ones. You probably understand your parent’s desire to age in place. However, you also may be concerned about their wellbeing and their safety, especially if they are showing signs of cognitive decline or limited mobility.There’s no right answer for everyone. The choice between aging in place or moving to assisted living depends on your unique needs and priorities. There are a number of factors to consider, so it’s important to do your due diligence. Below are a few things to consider with each choice.
Comfort
We all want to enjoy our golden years to the fullest possible extent. For many the best way to enjoy their retirement is to stay in their home as long as possible. After all, home is where you are comfortable. It’s where you made your memories and possibly raised a family. Everything being equal, staying in your home may provide you with the greatest source of comfort and happiness.However, don’t underestimate the ways in which you may be more comfortable in an assisted living facility. Consider that you would likely have staff to help with things like cleaning and food preparation, giving you more time to relax and do the things you love.Also, in many facilities you can bring some of your own furnishings, decorations, and other accessories from home. That way, you can get some of the comfort of home with the support that comes with a facility.
Safety
While aging in place may win in terms of comfort, it could provide some risks in terms of safety. That’s especially true if you or your loved one is dealing with cognitive or mobility challenges. For many seniors, even the simplest tasks, such as taking a bath, can be a dangerous process. One fall or accident could be enough to lead to substantial medical problems.An assisted living facility usually reduces these kinds of risks in a substantial way. The rooms and common areas are designed to promote safety. Staff are available around the clock to assist with any difficult tasks. If a senior does fall or have an accident, help can be there in minutes.There is a middle path, though. You can modify your home to make it safer and to eliminate risk. Things like benches, shower mats, and grab bars can make bathtime less dangerous. Ramps can make doorways easier to navigate with a wheelchair. Even a lift chair can help you sit and stand without the risk of injury.If you want to reduce risk, but also retain the comfort of home, consider installing safety modifications.
Socialization
Another factor that shouldn’t be ignored is the social aspect that exists in many assisted living facilities. While you may have your own private living space, you will also likely have common areas where you can connect with other residents. Many facilities organize activities, group trips, and entertainment.If you’re still mobile and able to drive and have a strong social network nearby, it may be possible for you to stay socially active while aging in place. Perhaps you have friends in your neighborhood or you have regular social time with a card group or with friends at a senior center. If so, you may be more inclined to stay in your own home. Also consider that you may be able to implement tools that help you stay in your home but also be socially active. For example, if you have mobility challenges, a scooter could help you keep up with your friends and family. A vehicle lift is a great way to make your scooter or wheelchair easier to transport.It’s important to maintain a strong social network in your advanced years. Social activity has been shown to reduce the threat of Alzheimer’s and other cognitive issues. However, if you’re not ready for an assisted living community, you can use mobility tools to help you navigate the world outside your home.
Cost
Finally, cost is likely to play an major role in your decision. While assisted living may provide the safety and support you need, it’s often an expensive solution. A recent Genworth study found that the average monthly cost of a private room in an assisted living facility is $3,628. Considering you may be in the facility for years, it’s entirely possible that assisted living could drain your assets.It’s also entirely possible that the cost of care could rise as your needs become more complex. That average cost from the Genworth study assumes assisted living, which has some support but also requires a level of independence on the part of the resident. If you need advanced care and support, the cost could rise quickly.If you need a safer and more supportive environment and want to age in place, consider modifications you can make to your home to eliminate risks. Walk-in bathtubs can help prevent falls. A stairlift could help you access the upper level of your home.If you combine these modifications with support from family, friends, or even a home health aide, you may be able to age in place in a safe and comfortable manner. And you might be able to protect your hard-earned assets from the cost of long-term care.Are you ready to develop a safe aging in place strategy? Contact us at Med Mart today. Our consultants welcome the opportunity to discuss your needs. Let’s connect soon and start the conversation.
It’s a decision that rarely has an easy answer. Should you age in place in your home or move to an assisted living facility? Most seniors face that question at some point in their lives. As you age, it’s likely that you may have increasing difficulty performing basic living functions. While you may want to stay in your home, it’s tempting to think that life may be easier with the support that comes from assisted living.
The decision can be even more difficult for children and other loved ones. You probably understand your parent’s desire to age in place. However, you also may be concerned about their wellbeing and their safety, especially if they are showing signs of cognitive decline or limited mobility.
There’s no right answer for everyone. The choice between aging in place or moving to assisted living depends on your unique needs and priorities. There are a number of factors to consider, so it’s important to do your due diligence. Below are a few things to consider with each choice.