Have you ever asked yourself, “Why is aging in place important?” If so, then you’ll want to read this entire article. Even if you haven’t, you should read it; there is a wealth of information here, that is the foundation of a way to create the future you want later in life. That is, the idea of aging in place and why you should be thinking about it, whether you’re 40 or 70.
Maybe you’ve heard about aging in place. When you did, you may have said, “That’s for people who are old.” Or, you might have thought, “I have plenty of time to think about that.” I think a lot of people’s reactions are similar to those two.
What is aging in place?
Aging in place is a term used to describe someone who is living in the home of their choice, while they are growing older and getting any assistance they might need as time goes on.
Typically, most people stay in their homes until they get sick or have an accident. The key concept of aging in place is extending that time … by 5, 10, 15 or more years … by preparing your life and home to keep yourself safe and healthy.
Why is aging in place important?
We like to think that staying in the home we want is a good idea. However, most people don’t prepare for that. And, as a result, end up having to leave home earlier than they could have if they had just prepared.
In every city and neighborhood across the U.S. … including yours … there are people struggling to stay at home because they didn’t get their homes ready. They are having trouble doing the things they need to do everyday, including things they should do to take care of themselves.
They are unable to stay safe, happy and healthy at home. And, if you don’t get ready, that will most likely be you, too.
Start with home
Most people start by getting their home ready. For some, it could be the single family home; for others, it could be a condo. Regardless of the type of home you live in, getting your home ready for aging in place takes almost identical work.
We try to teach people how they can create a fully accessible home (so it works for you regardless of your physical abilities) and will help you in your daily life. Simply, “main floor living”, where everything you need for daily life is on one floor of your home. (Including, a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and laundry room.) And, you can easily get in and out of your home on that floor.
Outside of home
There are other aspects of life you need to take into consideration for aging in place. Specifically, all the other things you need from or to do, outside of the home. At some point, you’ll need a way to get to those things or get them brought to you. (Or, both.) For instance:
- Are the services you need available where you live?
- Do you have enough friends, family or companies to help you?
- How will you get out to socialize with others?
- How will you get your medical care or home maintained?
Those are all important questions you should start considering. The earlier you start, the better chance you have to keep living a life that is what you want it to be later on.
Now, you know the answer to, “Why is aging in place important?” As Certified Aging in Place Specialists and Occupational Therapists, we have a unique set of skills and experience to help you get your home and life ready.