According to several national research polls, most adults age 45 and up say they want to live independently at home for as long as possible. This is called aging in place.
If you want to help someone age in place, you'll need to plan for it. The best time to begin planning is now, before they need much care.
Keep these ideas in mind as you plan ahead.
Make a plan. Think about what kind of help the person might need as they become less independent. Revisit and update the plan regularly. It can include in-home services the person will need, safety modifications for the home and what to do in an emergency. Share the plan with your loved one, as well as with family and friends.
Get help. You might think you can care for an aging person on your own. But chances are, you'll need help for things like running errands, cleaning and keeping the person company. Enlist family and friends, or hire out these tasks.
If you plan to be the main caregiver, consider your capabilities. Can you bathe this person when that becomes difficult for them? When it comes to medical help, such as injecting medications or changing catheters, consider hiring a home health care professional if you don't think you can manage those things on your own.
Stay organized. Keeping track of medical visits can keep you from feeling overwhelmed. Also create a list of the person's medications (including dosage and frequency) and store it on your computer or phone, where it's easy to find. Keep the list up-to-date.
Make home a safe place. Remove tripping and falling hazards, such as rugs, cords and clutter. Add grab bars and a rubber mat to the shower. Install a carbon monoxide detector and fire alarms and test them periodically. Make sure hallways and rooms are well-lit. For more complex safety modifications, like a wheelchair ramp or wider doorways, hire a contractor.
Think about overall wellness. Exercise, social connection and good nutrition will help your loved one stay healthy and independent. Advise them to check with their doctor before starting any exercise program.
In-home visits from friends and family keep loneliness at bay, and adult day care programs can provide social activities and meals outside of the home. Day care gives you a break, too, which is good for your mental health.
Help your loved one eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of liquids. Look into meal delivery programs.
Watson Clinic’s
Family Medicine and
Internal Medicine specialists can assist elderly patients and their caregivers as they adjust to home care. Call 863-680-7190 to schedule an appointment.
Sources: AARP; Health in Aging Foundation; National Council on Aging; National Institute on Aging