How to Age in Place

A report from the University of Michigan found that only 15% of seniors had given home modification much consideration. This is despite the overwhelming desire for seniors to prefer aging in place.

However, it’s a good idea for families to use this time to plan for aging in place. It’s essential to center seniors in decision-making and talk to them about their needs early.

“A portion of seniors are aging in place but are also stuck in place. They don’t have the financial resources to help them move or relocate or downsize, or they cannot afford to live in the nursing homes.”

Seasons’ recent article, “Pandemic has made seniors more confident about aging in place, study reports,” explains why an early open dialogue with seniors is so meaningful.

Here are eight questions to ask to prepare for aging in place:

1. What home modifications can I make now, so my home can continue to meet my needs as I get older?
2. Do I have a bedroom and bathroom available on the ground floor?
3. Is it more sensible to downgrade to a smaller home or move in with family?
4. How can I meet my transportation needs? What if there’s an emergency?
5. Am I willing to have additional caregivers come into the home to help me?
6. What tasks would I be most comfortable with them doing?
7. What are some anxieties I have about living alone? How can I get more comfortable with the idea?
8. What other concerns do I have that I should address now?

It’s essential to keep the lines of communication open as the situation changes. What a senior was comfortable with at one point may not be the same as they lose their abilities and prevent them from aging in place.

About half of older adults who responded to the AARP survey agreed they would be willing to consider an accessory dwelling unit – such as a mother-in-law cottage – or multi-generational home. These aging-in-place solutions can offer seniors the support they need while maintaining their independence and preventing institutionalization.

Reference: Seasons (Aug. 9, 2022) “Pandemic has made seniors more confident about aging in place, study reports”