Services That Make Aging in Place Easier and Safer

Earl treasures his home, where he and his wife, Nina, raised their two sons and welcomed grandkids. Memories of her linger there since her death. Earl wants to stay in his home as long as possible but needs some assistance to ensure his safety and comfort. Where does he turn?

Nearly 90% of seniors want to age in place in their own homes in their familiar neighborhoods, where their memories are and where good friends live. Fortunately, for many, this is possible with some guidance and assistance. To help you and your family decide whether you can live in the comfort of your home with assistance, first take an honest inventory of your health, physical well-being, and environment.

Aging-in-Place Considerations

When considering the prospect of aging in place, assess your physical and medical needs first. For example:

• Is your balance good?
• Can you go up and down stairs?
• Are you able to get in and out of the shower or bathtub?
• Can you use the toilet and dress yourself?
• Do you have vision impairment?
• Can you reach up and bend down to retrieve items from drawers, cabinets, and closets?
• Do you use a walker, cane, or wheelchair to get around?
• Do you need help remembering your medication?

Consider What Changes Would Be Needed To Age in Place

After you’ve reviewed your medical and physical needs, it’s time to look around your home—both inside and outside—to determine what changes need to be made to remain safe.

Bathroom

• Are there grab bars in the shower or bathtub and nonslip mats or decals in place?
• Are there nonskid rugs right outside the tub or shower and in front of the sink?
• Is there a night-light where needed?
• Is the water heater set at 120° F to avoid scalding?

Kitchen

• Is the kitchen well lit, including under-cabinet lights?
• Are canned soups, vegetables, spices, and boxed foods accessible?
• Are pots, pans, dishes, and other cooking and eating utensils reachable?

Floors

• Are nonskid rugs or mats placed on wood and tile floors?
• Is there clutter scattered about on the floors?
• Does the furniture need to be rearranged to create clear pathways?

Stairs

• Are there sturdy handrails installed, preferably on both sides of the stairs?
• Are the stairs well lit?
• Is there clutter blocking the way?
• Do wooden deck stairs need to be repaired?
• Are sidewalks level and free of cracks?
• Do you have indoor and outdoor treads on the steps?

If your answers to the above questions signal that some changes are needed, it doesn’t mean you can’t stay in your home. It simply may mean you need the right help to do so safely. The good news is that there are caregivers who can help, whether they are family members or professional caregivers.

How Right at Home Can Help

When you want to stay in your home but need a little help to do so safely, Right at Home can help* with:

• Companion care services: light housekeeping, grocery shopping, meal preparation, transportation, and more.
• Personal care services: physical assistance, hygiene, bathing, and assistance with feeding.
• Nursing services: in-home medical care, such as ostomy care, medication management, and other nursing services.
• Specialty care services: support for chronic conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and Parkinson’s, along with how Right at Home can help those who are:
  • Recovering at home after a hospitalization.
  • Supporting those receiving hospice or palliative care.
  • Adults living with a physical or mental disability.
  • Family caregivers who need a respite break to rest and recharge.

Right at Home offers guides to help you age in place and ensure your well-being. Here are two:

• The Aging-in-Place Guide covers how to make your home safe and what to consider when modifying or remodeling your home.
• The Fall Prevention Guide offers a comprehensive room-by-room checklist to help prevent falls in and around your home.

If you want to learn more about how Right at Home can help you safely age in place, visit our website and use our location finder to contact the nearest location.

* In-home care services may vary by location.