Cultural Changes Bring Lifestyle Changes
In 2011, the first Baby Boomers turned 65, and over the next thirty years millions more will follow. Three years later, 46 million Americans were 65 or older, representing 14.5% of the overall population. According to Administration on Aging, by 2040 that number will jump to 98 million, or 21.7% percent of the population. Fast forward to 2060 and about 98 million Americans will be of retirement age.
As a result, this massive cultural change – referred to by many as the Silver Tsunami – has prompted many to reexamine the way we approach aging in America. Many Boomers shepherded their own parents through retirement and witnessed the associated challenges firsthand. As a result, they now wish to approach this process in a more deliberate manner. The Aging in Place movement finds its origins here.
What is Aging in Place
Defined broadly, Aging in Place is a plan through which a person lives out their senior years in a home of their choosing – for as long as possible – with the goal of maintaining or improving their quality of life. Because it’s intended to be a long-term process, aging in place requires long-term thinking about one’s changing needs towards finances, health and personal care, and housing. So beginning this planning as early as possible is important.
Your Home Becomes the Center of Your World
The primary goal of Aging in Place is to stay in the home of your choice for as long as possible, so your home’s design and amenities become important considerations. Increased accessibility needs and deteriorating mobility are the two biggest factors driving seniors out of their homes and into assisted living communities. Fortunately, you can anticipate many of the physical changes that come with aging and address them before they become a crisis. Common physical changes include:
- Transitioning from walking freely to assisted walking or wheelchair use.
- Loss or reduction in vision.
- Increased risk of falls.
- Arthritis or other degenerative pain maladies.
In many cases, thoughtful design and technological improvements can help seniors face their changing physical needs head-on.
Help with Everyday Tasks
In addition to changing mobility, many people need help with everyday tasks like personal hygiene, meal preparation, and housekeeping. Family members can only help with these tasks so much. So including an experienced home care company as part of your long term planning can help fill this important gap.
Generations Home Care Can Help
Generations Home Care provides Arizona residents with a long list of non-medical services and employs qualified and trustworthy caregivers matched with each client’s needs. In some cases, insurance can help cover the costs of home care. Our experts can help determine your eligibility. For more information on our services please call 602-595-HOME or send us a message.
Aging in Place is an achievable goal that requires a detailed and forward-thinking approach. Anticipating your evolving needs and learning about all the ways they can be met is a great first step.
