Aging in place refers to the choice many seniors make to remain in their homes as they grow older (as opposed to moving into a retirement community or nursing home). It's one of the more important decisions that most individuals make during their golden years, and as such, it bears careful consideration.
Remaining at home isn't feasible for everyone; however, for those who can manage it, the benefits of aging in place are significant. For example:
Community and Connection
Isolation can be very dangerous for seniors, and has been associated with negative physical and mental health outcomes. Conversely, higher levels of social connectedness are strongly correlated with better quality of life for older adults. For seniors who are connected to their communities, maintaining those relationships is important.
Emotional Value
Many individuals have strong emotional connections to their home and belongings. For some, the idea of leaving the home in which they raised their children or lived with their partner is unthinkable. While the emotional value we attach to our home environment is subjective and varies from person to person, for some individuals, it's a crucial factor.
Independence and Autonomy
The desire to maintain a sense of freedom and control in their lives is one of the most common motivations for aging in place, and for many seniors, it's an essential component of their overall well-being.
Financial Concerns
Often, the choice to age in place or not comes down to money. According to data from Genworth Financial, in 2021, the median cost of assisted living facilities was $54,000 per year. For nursing homes, that number is often much, much higher. While the cost of aging in place varies widely depending on location and individual need, many seniors feel that it's the smartest financial option for them.
Resources Are Available
Aging in place doesn't mean that you're completely on your own. Many seniors get help from family members, friends, or in-home aides. What's more, organizations like Spectrum Community Services often provide aging in place resources that make remaining at home comfortable and enjoyable.
Spectrum Community Services is committed to improving the quality of life for low-income families, seniors, and individuals in Alameda County. Through financial assistance and other services, our goal is to support community members in building healthy, safe, and independent lives. Visit our website for more information, or contact us to learn about current volunteer opportunities. We can't wait to work with you!