As individuals advance in age, there are many things they and their loved ones need to consider in order to ensure their lives remain happy, healthy, and comfortable as their needs change. It’s important for older people to maintain independence and freedom in their sunset years, even if they face mobility challenges.
Aging in place refers to allowing seniors to live out the rest of their lives in their own homes, rather than transferring to a care facility or senior living community. There are many benefits, both physical and mental, to remaining in the comfort of one’s home as they age.
#1. Emotional Well-Being
Homes are not just physical spaces; they’re an embodiment of years of memories and have priceless sentimental value. Aging in place allows seniors to remain in the place where they have so many connections, preserving their sense of identity and belonging.
There are a lot of mental challenges that come with aging, including memory loss and more serious conditions like Alzheimer’s or dementia. Allowing seniors to stay in their homes as they age and spend time in a familiar environment gives them emotional stability and reduces the stress and anxiety associated with aging.
#2. Independence and Autonomy
Depending on a senior’s health and individual needs, care facilities often restrict their choices and control certain aspects of their lives. When seniors remain in their own homes, they are able to make decisions about their daily routines — what to wear, what to eat, who to see, where to go, and how to spend their time. Aging in place affords seniors the opportunity to maintain their independence and gives them a greater sense of self-worth and confidence.
#3. Supportive Community Connections
Over their decades of life, seniors have made countless connections within their communities. As people age, these connections are more important than ever. Aging in place means they can stay in the same neighborhood where they have forged friendships and built a support system. Friends and neighbors can help seniors with their changing needs and provide them with priceless emotional support.
#4. Familiarity and Safety
For seniors, especially those with disabilities or mobility challenges, it can be hard to learn to navigate a new, unfamiliar environment such as a retirement community or an assisted living facility. Because they are familiar with their home’s layout, when they age in place, the risk of falls or accidents is lower.
With the right mobility equipment, such as stair or platform lifts, seniors can safely and easily access all areas of their home, even if they use mobility aids such as a wheelchair, walker, or cane. Additionally, wheelchair-accessible vans and vehicles with wheelchair lifts provide a way for wheelchair users to easily travel outside their homes.
#5. Cost-Effectiveness
There are a lot of costs associated with assisted living facilities for seniors. While these facilities are necessary for some seniors with specific conditions that necessitate more intensive care, many people can still live comfortably at home with only a few accommodations. While the cost of stairlifts or other mobility solutions can be high, it’s still less of a financial burden than the cost of most care facilities.
#6. Personalized Care
When they age in place, seniors can receive personalized care from loved ones and home healthcare aides. This one-on-one care ensures all their needs are met and allows them to create stronger bonds with their caregivers.
#7. Promotes Healthy Aging
Engaging in an active lifestyle in one’s golden years has been shown to increase one’s physical and mental health and provide a longer, happier life.
While most care facilities provide high-quality medical care, they can often give seniors a sense of isolation or loneliness. Aging in place allows seniors to remain active in their community and engaged in their surroundings. They can continue their hobbies and participate in the activities they enjoy, promoting greater well-being.
Mobility and Accessibility When Aging in Place
It may take some extra work on the part of their family and loved ones, but aging in place is a great option for many seniors. It allows them to keep their sense of freedom and independence, experience connections with their community, and live a happy, fulfilling life in their sunset years.
If you need solutions to the mobility challenges associated with aging in place, turn to ParaQuad Mobility. We are committed to providing all our customers with the accessibility devices they need to live an independent lifestyle. Contact us today for a mobility consultation and see what we can do for you.