These Four Factors Would Make Aging In Place A Good Fit For You

Have you been considering how you will spend the next stage of your life? Are you working with a loved one who has been leaning toward a decision to begin aging in place? How will you or your loved one know that aging in place is the right thing for you?

There are some key factors that will make aging in place a good fit for you or your loved one. If you are not sure if it is a right fit for you then you should consider these four factors which will hopefully make the decision for you more easily.

The first two factors are environment related. If your living arrangements fit a certain kind of environment then you may be a good candidate for aging in place. The two factors for you to consider about your environment include, but are not limited to;

1.) Your connection to your community. Take into account whether you have a strong connection with your neighbors (right next door or down the street.) A close connection with your community may also mean your local faith community, a senior center or other town/city organizations that you have a long-term relationship with.

2.) Close to hospital and other medical providers. If you are near your local hospital and your doctor’s office is nearby as well, you may be in a good situation to continue living independently where you are so you have easy access to medical care when it is needed.

The other two factors are more personal. In order to achieve a happy life while aging in place you will need to have certain situations in your personal life that will support you in your journey to remain independent. Taking these more personal factors into account will help you make a decision whether aging in place is right for you.

1.) Nearby family and friends are available to support you. While you may not need a live-in caregiver or even a full-time caregiver, having family and friends nearby who are willing and able to support you will make aging in place a much more attainable goal. When you’re aging in place you may need the support of someone to come and help you with a ride to and from an appointment or you may need someone to just stop in and say a friendly hello to keep you socially engaged.

2.) Financial resources to continue to pay for services that you may need when aging in place. Living independently as you age may require you to expend resources. You may need to hire a home health aide to help you with a medical condition or a contractor to fix items on a checklist throughout your house. These services require financial resources and if you have them you will be much more likely to be able to enjoy your time aging in place.

Of course these are not the only four factors that you will want to take into account when considering whether you or a loved one might like to live while aging in place, but they are four of the most important to consider. You will want to spend time thinking about how your life will be different and how it may remain the same before you make any final decisions on your next steps.