Imagine waking up every morning in a place that feels like an extension of you - your home. Does choosing this mean you're giving up? Absolutely not! As a Certified Aging in Place Specialist, I can assure you this couldn't be further from the truth. In fact, aging in place is a rapidly growing trend as Baby Boomers demand retirement on their own terms. It's crucial to debunk a dangerous myth like this to help seniors and their families make informed decisions.
What is Aging in Place?
So, what exactly is aging in place? Rather than moving to a retirement facility, it’s simply the desire to live at home as one gets older. It’s not just about staying put; it’s about thriving in a familiar environment with the right resources and support.
The benefits are many. Emotional comfort of familiar surroundings, independence and freedom to do what you want when you want, and proximity to lifelong community ties - just to name a few.
Aging in place can also improve health, increase happiness and quality of life, and preserve retirement savings.
Why People Want to Age in Place
Think about the comfort of your favorite chair or the spontaneous conversation with neighbors over the fence or during a walk. These are just some of the emotional and psychological benefits that come with continuing to live in the place where you feel most comfortable. Maintaining your independence and autonomy in your personal space, and staying connected to the community that feels like home is a benefit that can’t be replicated.
Studies show that people who age in place are healthier too.
As if better health and happiness wasn’t enough, aging in place is usually financially advantageous compared to expensive retirement facilities that drain savings quickly.
But there’s another financial perk that most people miss. Making strategic home improvements to accomodate and enhance aging in place can increase home value significantly providing greater equity and resale.
Impact of the Pandemic on Older Adults' Attitudes About Retirement Facilities
The pandemic has reshaped how many view retirement facilities. Concerns about safety and isolation during lockdowns have made aging in place more appealing.
Of course, technology played a pivotal role, allowing seniors to stay connected and manage their lives from home, reinforcing the appeal of staying put.
Seniors are Living Longer with Better Medical Care
Thanks to advancements in medical care, seniors are living longer and healthier lives. In addition, studies show that the act of aging in place boosts health.
This increased longevity supports the choice to age in place, as many can not only manage but also enhance their health effectively from and at home.
Here’s another thing to consider. Since modern medicine is extending the lifespan for many, they will be spending more years in retirement. Financial planners usually make calculations based upon a 30 year retirement.
But what if your retirement extends by 10, 30 or even 50 years more than you planned? And what if you entered a retirement community at age 65, planning to live until 90 but live to be 105?
Living in a facility is expensive. Will your retirement savings last through those ‘bonus years’?
Even if you plan to go to a retirement community eventually, when is the right time to make the move?
Staying at home for even a few extra years has a substantial financial advantage for most people. It’s definitely a point to consider before you sign the contract with the retirement village.
Retirees Expect an Active Lifestyle & Improved Quality of Life
Today’s retirees are more vibrant and active than ever. They want to travel, engage in hobbies, and enjoy social activities. Many want to make up for lost time and do the activities and take the dream trips they were too busy to do earlier in life.
Take a few minutes to envision what your ideal active retirement lifestyle looks like. Where are you living? What are you doing?
With proper planning, aging in place can support your vision by providing a home base for pursuing adventures but that also supports periods of recovery following those adventures or even recuperating from a surgery or illness.
Who doesn’t want to speed up the downtime so there’s more time for the fun stuff?
Challenges of Aging in Place: Home Accessibility
Here’s a startling fact. Fewer than 10% of homes have features needed for aging in place.
Deciding to age in place is one thing. Actually preparing to do it successfully is a completely different topic. This is where home modifications are a critical first step toward success.
Simple changes like installing a step-free entrance or a senior-friendly bathroom can make all the difference in safety, comfort and convenience today and for any changes in the future.
Proactive vs Reactive Strategy for Preparing Homes for Retirement
Would you rather plan ahead or be caught off guard by life’s unexpected twists and turns? I thought so and in that case, planning is the key to success.
A proactive approach to aging in place and specifically home modifications can prevent or minimize the impact of future challenges.
Consider this....would you rather adapt your home before it’s necessary (and enjoy the many benefits now) or scramble to make changes during the stress-filled chaos after a fall?
My many clients are real-life examples that show that those who plan enjoy a smoother, more secure and comfortable retirement.
Resources & Assistance Necessary to Successfully Age in Place
There’s a wealth of resources available to support aging in place. And aging in place looks different for each person based upon personal dreams, preferences and needs.
Options for aging well at home are abundant especially with technology providing enhanced safety and connectivity, while consulting with professionals offers tailored solutions customized for each unique person. It’s about crafting a personalized plan for success.
Final Thoughts & Next Steps
Don’t wait!
As you can see, deciding to age in place in the comfort of your own home is not giving up. But it is a call to action to do the prep work and make the necessary arrangements so it turns out to achieve your vibrant, independent lifestyle dreams for retirement.
Explore your options, plan proactively, and consider seeking consultation to ensure your home supports your golden years.
Ready to take the first step? Let’s start the conversation on accessible home design today with this complimentary Home Features Guide.