Ten Tips for Aging in Place

Who wants to go to a nursing home? No one! Some of us may have no choice. However, by developing a plan for aging in place, we may be able to prolong or even avoid going to a nursing home. Consider the following ten tips to help you develop a plan to stay right where you are – home.

  1. Talk with family members, so they are aware of your wishes. Speaking with trusted family members ahead of time ensures that you are all “on the same page.” This makes things much easier. Make sure that they know who your doctors are, who your advisors are, etc. Doing so allows them to continue your plan, if you are no longer able to do so.
  2. Get estate plan documents in place. It is important to have legal documents like a durable financial power of attorney, durable medical power of attorney and advanced medical directive in place, in case you become incompetent. These documents allow you to name a trusted loved one to make legal decisions and health care decisions consistent with your wishes. Without these documents, you will find yourself in an unpleasant court process that could have been easily avoided.
  3. Make safety modifications to your home. While we all love being at home, there are hazards that can cause accidents. Adding things such as support bars in the bathroom, a walk-in bathtub and a chair lift (if you have stairs) can prevent injuries from falls that can require a long-term stay in a care facility.
  4. Hire someone to help with chores and/or caregiving. Get help with activities that most often lead to accidents. This is a great way to prolong your ability to live at home. Accidents from activities like cleaning house or bathing can and do send people directly to a nursing home. Prevent the preventable.
  5. Make a care plan, in case you need in-home assistance down the road. Even if you do not need anyone to help now, you may need someone down the road. It is important to decide ahead of time who would provide care, how you will pay for it, who could provide meal delivery, etc.
  6. Make sure to utilize all options for mobility. If you have difficulty getting around the house and/or can no longer drive, it is important to maximize your options for mobility. Decide whether you want a power chair or motorized scooter. Learn your options for private transportation companies for seniors. They can take you to doctor’s appointments, the grocery store, etc.
  7. Get involved with local senior groups to ensure continued socialization. It is important to have regular interaction with others. Doing so, enhances your quality of life and keeps your mind sharp.
  8. Utilize a medical alert system. Make sure you can contact emergency services if you fall or have some other medical emergency. This can mean the difference between life and death.
  9. Learn and take advantage of technology. Many of the things that used to require a “trip,” such as paying bills, can be done at home on a computer or tablet. Use a tablet as a reading device or to play games to help keep your mind stimulated.
  10. Consider getting a pet. Having a pet can greatly enhance your quality of life. A pet can help reduce the feeling of loneliness that can come with living alone.

Use these tips and develop a plan to age in place.

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