Have you seen this term in the news lately? What is “Aging in Place?” As our baby boomer population ages, this new term has become popular as boomers are choosing to stay in their private homes rather than moving to assisted living. Perhaps it should be called “living in place.” Regardless, Aging in Place is birthing new businesses as our population ages.
Defining Aging in Place What is Aging in Place?
The Center for Disease Control defines aging in place as “the ability to live in one’s own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level.” The concept of aging in place represents the desire of many older adults to remain in their own home for as long as possible.
There are a variety of resources and services available, such as in-home aide service, adult day care, and transportation assistance, which can support a person’s decision to age in place. However, it may be difficult to find and arrange the necessary services for an older adult seeking to remain at home. Reasons for this may include unfamiliarity with community resources and/or the financial inability to pay for services.
An older adult may be covered by programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, long-term care insurance or the Veteran’s Administration. It is important for the individual (or primary caregiver) to know their specific coverage and have a deep understanding of the financial and insurance benefits available to them.
Support for Aging in Place What is Aging in Place?
A second important consideration is the specific support a person needs to make staying at home a viable option. Many services are available, such as:
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- Home health care agencies
- Home care agencies
- Home-delivered meals or congregate meal programs
- Emergency medical response systems
- Telephone reassurance (volunteer based)
- Transportation (volunteer, private pay or county)
- Adult day care
It is always a good idea to include the older adult in the decision-making process when possible. For more information on how to ready a house for aging in place click here.
What is Aging in Place?
