5 Benefits of Aging in Place

We all want what is best for our aging loved ones and ourselves as we age. Sometimes, it can be challenging to know what is best. However, a 2021 AARP survey found that “more than three-quarters of adults 50 and older said they wanted to stay in their homes or their communities as they age.”

What is Aging in Place?

“Aging in place is defined as remaining in a community-based dwelling during one’s late years in life,” according to the National Library of Medicine. “The home may be one where an individual spent most of their adulthood, perhaps rearing a family and establishing deep roots, or it may be a ‘downsized’ space, such as an apartment, mobile home, or condo, that offers the appeal of independent living without the maintenance, expense, and potential dangers of remaining in a larger home.”

According to the National Library of Medicine, “In the past 20 years, the number of community-dwelling adults in traditional housing has increased, while those living in nursing homes has declined.” Why this shift? Not only do many older adults prefer aging in place, but it turns out that it offers many psychological and physical benefits.

5 Benefits of Aging In Place

1. Independence
“For many people, maintaining a sense of independence is essential, as it enables older adults to improve their quality of life,” according to the University of Southern California (USC). “Aging in place allows older adults to retain a high level of control over their lives, as they can continue to live in familiar spaces.”

2. Healthier Environment
We saw how quickly COVID-19 spread in institutions such as long-term care facilities. The number of people living under one roof, the volume of visitors coming and going, and the frequency of hospital admittance in long-term care facilities increase the possibility of being exposed to infectious diseases and illnesses commonly spread through the transfer of viruses, bacteria, and other germs. Aging in place limits exposure.

3. More Comfort
Home is where the heart is. Most people are more comfortable in familiar environments and places filled with fond memories, surrounded by the things they love – their favorite chair, beautiful garden, loving pets, personal mementos, etc.

4. More Affordable
While money should not be the prime reason to age in place, most of us don’t have an unlimited supply of money. Even with modifications and/or hiring an in-home care provider, aging in place is usually significantly less expensive than a long-term care facility.

5. Maintaining Community Connections
Aging in place often allows older adults to maintain the community connections and friends they’ve built over a lifetime. “Remaining in their communities enables older adults to make social interactions part of their daily lives. Since having an active social life can help older adults prevent dementia, maintaining community connections and important friendships can contribute to better health and higher quality of life,” the New USC explains. “Senior living facilities may also offer numerous opportunities for forging bonds and building social connections. However, relocating requires older adults to create new friendships and may separate them from longtime communities.”

Get Help With the Challenges of Aging in Place

Aging in place may be a challenge for some older adults, but more and more options are available to help. For example, modifications can be made at home to create a safer environment, and in-home care like that provided by Comforting Home Care by Phoebe makes aging in place more accessible to many older adults.

Call us today at 610-625-5206 or connect with us online. We'll send a compassionate licensed nurse to meet with you or a loved one anywhere in Berks, Bucks, Lehigh, and Northampton Counties.