Thriving at Home: 3 Strategies for Successful Aging in Place
Aging in place in your home is do-able if you take these 3 steps to help make it possible.
The population is aging but statistics show that most people want to live in there homes, or age in place, as long as safely possible. It is entirely possible if you remain healthy and make some adjustments to your environment. Start by following these 3 tips so you can age in place in the comfort of your own home.
1. Walk Your Way to Health
All types of physical activity deliver health benefits. For seniors, a daily walking routine is often the best option. Harvard Medical School cites various studies that have confirmed that walking counteracts the effects of weight-promoting genes, reduces cravings for sweets, eases joint pain, and boosts immune function. Achieving these benefits may require only 20 minutes of walking a day, five days a week. To gain even more from your walks, take them outdoors, with or without a friend. These short bursts of activity can improve your mental outlook in addition to your physical health.
2. Embrace One-Floor Living
Talk to a design specialist to learn how to prepare your home so you can age in place gracefully. You may need to make significant renovations, or your home may only require a few small changes to accommodate one-floor living. If your house doesn’t lend itself to a first-floor bedroom, can’t accommodate assistive equipment in the shower, or requires more renovations than you’re willing to make, consider moving to a different home. It will be easier to change your address now than to wait until health issues dictate a move. You’ll have more time to make decorating decisions and get settled in, so the new house becomes “home” to you and your family.
3. Get Comfortable With Technology
Technology is rapidly changing many aspects of life, from opening up new ways to receive medical care, new options for staying in touch with family and friends, and new ways to manage tasks around the home. If you aren’t already familiar with tablets or smartphones, take a class at your local library or community center, and learn the basics. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by all the benefits these devices can offer. Robots and smart homes will play a significant role in independent living. Soon, you’ll be able tocontrol your entire home, from opening windows and unlocking doors to changing the thermostat and ordering delivered meals—all with your voice!
All three of these dimensions— personal health, physical environment and the ability to use technology— play vital roles in remaining independent and aging in place as long as possible.
You can count on Margie Yohn, Realtor® & Seniors Real Estate Specialist®, to guide you through seniors issues --either yours or on behalf of an elderly loved one -- with the goal to inform, educate and advocate for transitions that are less stressful and more successful. For Seniors On The Move!