The Time is Always Right to Think About Aging in Place

The National Aging in Place Council’s Aging in Place Week highlights the importance of having meaningful conversations about the needs and challenges of aging Americans. As part of the event, held in early October, industry experts share valuable insights on everything from home safety and downsizing to bereavement and Medicare enrollment. Given the complexity of some of these issues, it is never too early to begin thinking about and planning for the kind of care we wish to receive as we advance in age.

Now, more than ever, a majority of Americans say that they want to age in place in familiar surroundings before needing to consider senior living or nursing care. An AARP survey of older adults indicated that about three-quarters (75%) of those 50+ would like to stay in their current homes or communities for as long as possible.

Considerations for aging in place
Aging in place is considered ideal by many seniors but it is important to take a realistic look at a variety of factors that could affect quality of life. The National Institute on Aging recommends assessing the following:

Chronic illnesses that you or your spouse might have. Talk with your doctor about how these health problems could make it difficult to get around or take care of yourselves in the future.
Personal care. Is bathing, washing your hair, or dressing getting harder to do?
Household chores. Do you need help with chores like housecleaning, yard work, grocery shopping or laundry?
Meals. Are you worried that you might not be eating nutritious meals, or are you tired of eating alone?
Health care. Do you forget to take your medicine or can’t remember what the doctor told you to do?
Getting around. Are you having trouble walking or driving? Do you need someone to go with you to the doctor or shopping?
Finding activities and friends. Are you bored staying at home, or is it hard for you to leave your home to do the things you enjoy?

If any of these items is starting to pose a challenge, you may need support to stay in your home for as long as possible. Aging in place works best when you are realistic about your health and limitations, and you make the necessary modifications to your home and routine. Having a support system, such as family, friends and outside help, can help you make sure that all of your needs are being met.

Kadan Homecare can help
Kadan’s Companion Care program gives seniors the assistance they need to maintain independence for as long as possible. Our highly trained caregivers can help with meal planning, transportation, light housekeeping, shopping and errands, medication reminders and more. If you have questions or need help with making decisions about aging in place, we are happy to use our knowledge and experience to make recommendations and assist you in any way we can. For more information or to talk with our team, please call 770-396-8997 or email info@kadan.org.

Dina Kadan White2022-10-19T14:52:18+00:00October 19th, 2022|

About the Author: Dina Kadan White

As Vice President of Kadan Homecare, White oversees the day-to-to day operations and assists with strategic planning for company. White has worked with Kadan full-time for the past 11 years, although she has been engaged with the family-run firm at some level for most of her adult life. Prior to joining Kadan, White served as Director of Product Development at Equifax and previously was a Marketing Director with Wachovia. These jobs prepared her well for a position where she works for the benefit of all aspects of this highly client-focused agency. White holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from the Georgia Institute of Technology. She is a member of the National Private Duty Association, a membership organization for firms whose homecare model is to employ, train, monitor and supervise caregivers, create a plan of care for the client and work toward a safe and secure environment for the person at home. White is also a member of the National Association for Home Care and Hospice.