Staying Home

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“Aging in place” has become an increasingly popular catchphrase, mainly because it reflects an increasingly common lifestyle for seniors.  One of the figures (suggested by the AARP) is that more than 70% of adults between the ages of 50 and 64 prefer to get old in the home they live in currently.  That means that more than a majority of us want to get old anchored to the very spot where we aged.

It makes sense, on many levels.
·         Aging in place permits you to keep your social connections.
·         Aging in place allows you to retain the happy memories of shared milestones and other happy occasions that took place in the residence.
·         Aging in place permits you to live in a residence that has your character and personality.  You don’t want to start with a generically bland, sterile domicile.

But to fulfill your dream, you might want to look at these items before making that critical decision.

* Is your home safe for an older person? You may need to remodel, adding ramps for when you are unable to dance up the stairs, for example.
* Will you be connected as you get older?  How are you going to stay in touch with your family, social circle, community and health care professionals? Do you require a car?  Are you familiar with internet connections and other computer applications?
*Are you able to financially swing that decision? You need to check your funds to make sure that you have monies for health care and other incidentals. There are other expenses, beyond just rental and housekeeping that need to be kept in mind.
*Will you have access to the health services you are happy with currently and those you will need in the future?  As we get older, we are increasingly in need of more and often different professional caregivers and other forms of medical amenities.  Will they all be accessible to you?

Finally, (saving the best piece of advice for last) reach out to professionals who can help you work through your concerns and issues. They should include independent health professionals, contractors you trust, and certified financial planners (not your brother-in-law who is more than happy to offer unsolicited advice).

You can make your dream to “age in place” work, but only if you properly plan for it.

Till next time,
Josh

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