These days, it seems like everyone is talking about the concept of “aging in place.” The baby boom generation is approaching the age at which they will likely require retirement home or senior living services, but this generation wants to remain at home as long as possible. Aging in place can have different meanings to different people, of course, depending on how affluent they may be, and their existing and projected health needs.
Affluent boomers are making large-scale renovations to their homes, or building new homes with accessibility features in mind. The renovations and accessibility features range from seemingly mundane details like no-step entryways, doorknobs that are easy to use with arthritic hands, and bars in shower stalls and toilet areas, to more costly and extravagant features like elevators, or a specialized room for a live-in caregiver.
Others are looking to in-home care services that offer their care at an hourly rate to help with the activities of daily living like meal preparation, bathing and dressing as an alternative to living in a retirement home.
Still, there are many seniors who prefer to relocate to a retirement home or community. A retirement home can offer many benefits to seniors as they age. First, a retirement home will generally offer a meal and maintenance plan, which takes the burden of home ownership off of the senior, allowing her to explore more enjoyable pursuits.
Many seniors who choose a retirement home over aging in place also enjoy the added security of knowing that should something happen, there is staff on-site to assist them, usually at the press of a button.
Some retirement homes offer access to in-home care services, so that residents who have chosen to reside in an independent living apartment can enjoy the best of both worlds, staying in their new home for as long as possible. And one benefit that is not to be overlooked is the access to social activities, being a part of a group of peers, and special events seniors can enjoy when they choose to become part of a retirement community
Regardless of the route you choose, it’s going to require some kind of financial commitment, so it’s important to plan for your potential needs in retirement – whether it’s the installation of features in your own home, or relocation to a retirement home.
Country Meadows
