Exploring the Value of Aging in Place

As your loved one grows older, they may start to have trouble taking care of their daily needs.

They may develop health issues or side effects from medication that make it hard to maintain balance, carry and use certain objects, and get in and out of bed or the shower.

Seniors are at a much higher risk of falls and accidents in the home, especially if their home isn’t properly upgraded to allow for aging in place.

However, many seniors prefer to age in place in the comfort of their own home rather than moving into an unfamiliar assisted living facility or retirement home.

Luckily, there are many things that you can do to ensure your loved one’s home is safe and comfortable, starting with hiring a skilled in-home caregiver.

Learn more about how in-home care allows your loved one to age in place safely and with dignity. 

Allows Seniors to Maintain Independence

Moving into an assisted living facility or retirement home can make some seniors feel like they no longer have control over their own lives.

Allowing your loved one to remain at home under the care of a skilled in-home caregiver can help them retain some sense of independence and autonomy.   

Prevents the Need for a Transition Into a New Home or Facility

When your loved one moves into a new home or a facility for the elderly, they will have to downsize their belongings, sell their home, and potentially get rid of beloved pets.

This transition can be incredibly stressful for everyone involved and can increase the risk of depression and other mental health issues.

Aging in place, with the help of a skilled caregiver, allows your loved one to stay home, surrounded by familiar belongings and personal comforts.  

Allows the Elderly to Build Stronger Community Connections

Aging in place can allow your elderly loved one to maintain existing family and social relationships.

They can also remain involved in their local community, taking part in clubs and activities they have enjoyed throughout the years.

This sense of connection and community can help them avoid isolation and prevent loneliness and mental health problems.  

Aging in Place Can Have Financial Advantages 

Aging in place can be less expensive than a retirement home or assisted living facility.

Although you may need to make some initial safety upgrades or repairs, the cost will be minimal compared to the cost of moving and paying rent and fees at a facility.

This is an especially important consideration for people who are on a fixed income.  

Ensures Your Loved One Can Stick to a Familiar Routine 

Remaining at home allows your loved one to stick to a familiar routine. If your loved one has health issues or cognitive issues like Alzheimer's or dementia, it’s crucial to prioritize familiarity and maintain a daily routine. 

Maintains Health and Safety 

A caregiver can assist with personal care needs, housekeeping, and other household tasks and chores that may be hard for your loved one to handle on their own.

This ensures that your loved one’s home remains safe and comfortable, and that they have a lower risk of an injury, illness, or accident in the home.

Some caregivers also offer in-home nursing care services, allowing your loved one to manage chronic health conditions and illnesses at home. 

Alleviates the Risk of Family Caregiver Burnout

Hiring an in-home caregiver can give your family respite from caring for an elderly loved one. They will still receive a highly individualized level of care and attention needed for their age, health, and abilities, but will not have to rely only on family caregivers.

You and your family can manage your work schedules, personal needs, self-care, and household needs while still ensuring your loved one is properly looked after.  

Lowers the Risk of Chronic Physical and Mental Health Conditions

Your loved one may be at risk of injury, illness, disease, and mental health challenges due to living alone.

They may have a greater chance of a fall or injury that causes chronic pain, which can affect their independence, shorten their lifespan, and cause mental health issues.

Isolation can lead to depression, anxiety, lack of physical activity, malnutrition, and other problems that increase the risk of diseases like heart disease and diabetes.

Hiring an in-home caregiver allows your loved one to remain at home while getting the care and companionship needed to lower the risk of chronic physical and mental health conditions.  

Encourages Family Involvement

Aging in place can also encourage family involvement. It may be easier for family members to visit or provide meals, transportation, and household assistance if your loved one remains at home.

If they move into a facility, it may be harder for loved ones to visit consistently or be involved in care.  

Call New Outlook Home Care for Information About Aging in Place in Oregon

New Outlook Home Care offers compassionate, highly personalized in-home care for the elderly in Medford and Redmond, OR.

Our professional, skilled caregivers pride themselves on tailoring their services to each client’s unique needs and goals.

We ensure the privacy, safety, and dignity of seniors who would prefer to age in place in the comfort of their own homes rather than transition into a senior living facility.

Call now or reach out to us online to schedule a consultation to discuss how we can help you or your loved one age in place.