NOTE: This article is a continuation of Aging in Place: Is it for me? Part 1.
Now that it has been decided that aging in place is best for you and you have gone through the necessary planning and preparation stages, you may be wondering what resources and services are available to help you maintain your independence.
What Support is Available
When thinking about aging in place, some people have concerns about staying connected socially, finding help for difficult tasks, or other limitations brought on by staying in your home.
First, you may want to reach out to family, friends, or neighbors that you already have a relationship with. They may be able to drive you to doctor’s appointments, help with daily chores, or provide company. However, if there are tasks where your loved ones are unavailable to help, there are organizations in your community that offer resources for older adults.
Your local Area Agency on Aging or local and state offices on aging or social services may have lists of services. Health care providers and social workers may also have suggestions. If you belong to a religious community, it might offer services for older adults.
If your regular caregiver isn’t available during the day, some organizations have volunteers who regularly pay short visits to older adults. Or you might consider an adult day care program, which can offer social activities, exercise, meals, and personal care during the day. Additionally, respite services provide short-term care for an older adult at home when a regular caregiver isn’t available. Many people find transportation services like Pace helpful for travel to appointments and errands.
While aging in place, you should be prepared for medical emergencies. If you have a serious allergy or medical need, talk with your doctor about whether you should get a medical alert ID bracelet or necklace. You might also consider an emergency medical alert system, which responds to medical and other emergencies through an electronic monitor that a person wears or has installed in their homes.
If you’re overwhelmed by the planning process, it may be beneficial to talk to a geriatric care manager. These specially trained professionals will work with you to form a care plan and find services you need. Geriatric care managers can be especially helpful when family members live far apart. Your doctor or other health care provider may be able to recommend a geriatric care manager, or you can contact the Aging Life Care Association for a list of these professionals in your area.
Healthcare organizations or experts on aging and dementia may be able to offer helpful insight into healthy aging practices and resources for older adults. The RUSH Alzheimer’s Disease Center offers an annual Resource Guide with health fact sheets and recommendations for local services.
Lastly, federal, state, and local governments offer many resources for older adults and their families and caregivers. A good place to start is the Eldercare Locator, which connects older Americans and their caregivers with trustworthy local support resources. Visit the Eldercare Locator or call 800-677-1116.
When It’s Time to Leave Home
The question of whether and when an older adult should leave their home is often difficult and stressful. Everyone will have their own reasons for wanting (or not wanting) to take such a step. But there may come a time when it is no longer safe or comfortable to live alone.
It’s important to learn as much as you can about the housing options available to help you. Talk with your family about the pros and cons of each option before making a decision.
Summary
- When thinking about aging in place, some people have concerns about staying connected socially, finding help for difficult tasks, or other limitations brought on by staying in your home.
- Ask for help from family, friends, or neighbors who may be able to drive you to doctor’s appointments, help with daily chores, or provide company. If there are tasks where your loved ones are unavailable to help, there are organizations in your community that offer resources for older adults.
- Be aware of housing options available to you in the case aging in place or living in your home on your own is no longer an option.
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