As our loved ones age, it's natural to want to ensure they live comfortably and safely. Aging in place means staying in the comfort of their own home instead of moving into a long-term care facility. This is an excellent option for seniors who need minor assistance with daily activities or have a close network of family or friends who can offer help when needed. Research has found that most people over 50 want to age in place, but many haven't planned or prepared to keep living in their current homes.
Aging in place is desirable for many seniors, but a lack of preparation can present unique challenges. If your loved ones want to age in place, consider taking the following steps to streamline the process and help them live safely, comfortably, and independently at home.
Start with a Plan
Lack of planning can make it challenging for your loved one to age in place. It's important to ask a few questions to determine what changes need to be made for your loved one to age in place comfortably. Will your loved one be living alone or with you? Do they use wheelchairs or other mobility devices that require home modification for easy navigation? Do they have any health conditions that require special care?
It's also important to consider the resources available to support them, such as family members, friends, and community resources. Once you've established what type of care your loved one needs and what support is readily available, you can start creating a plan to help them age in place.
Make Home Modifications
Many homes are not designed with the needs of seniors in mind, increasing the risk of falls and injuries. So, one of the most critical steps in helping your loved one age in place involves modifying their living environment, especially if they have limited mobility.
You can make several modifications to ensure your loved one's safety and comfort, such as removing tripping hazards, installing chair lifts on stairs and ramps in entrances, and adding grab bars and walk-in showers in bathrooms. One of the most crucial bathroom modifications involves looking into the best walk-in showers for seniors created with accessibility in mind. Walk-in shower stalls with seats are designed with a senior's bathing needs in mind, allowing them to shower independently with fewer risks of slipping or falling.
If you're concerned about your bathroom's overall look, the good news is reputable brands specializing in walk-in showers offer a luxurious and comfortable solution to modern bathroom safety without sacrificing style.
Hire a Caregiver
Your loved one doesn't necessarily need to move into a long-term care facility to receive the care they need daily. Hiring a caregiver can help your loved one maintain their independence and reduce their risk of falls and other accidents and help them age in place safely. However, it is important to recognize the assistance they need to ensure they are cared for accordingly. For example, if they need help cooking, bathing, or cleaning while you are busy, hiring a caregiver who can come into your home to offer service might be helpful. This can be a professional caregiver or a family member who can provide support.
You can do many things to help your loved ones age in place, and one important factor involves being flexible, as your loved one's needs and preferences may change over time, and you may need to adjust your plan accordingly. By staying flexible and open to new ideas, you can help your loved one maintain their independence and quality of life.