Aging in place is an attractive option for many, especially those who have lived in one place for most of their adult life. It is perfectly reasonable to plan to stay in the home as long as possible, as long as you have a support system in place and plans made for when health or mobility declines.
Some of the benefits to aging in place include:
- Familiar surroundings, especially helpful if one spouse has passed away
- No traumatic moves to a retirement community or assisted living facility
- Improved mental functioning due to familiar surrounding
- Comfort and convenience for family members, possibility of live-in family caregiver
Aging in place does require extensive planning to be successful. Financial circumstances and health should be the biggest factors when choosing to age in place. Consider the following questions as you plan:
- Will your insurance cover in home health care?
- Are there any government benefits available to you to help you pay for assistance with daily activities and skilled nursing care in the home?
- Who can you rely on for assistance and eventual caregiving if not?
- Is your home wheelchair accessible, and how much will it cost to make modifications to accommodate these needs if not?
