As people age, they face a difficult decision about where to live. Should they stay in their current homes or move into a senior living community? This is a crucial decision that impacts many aspects of their lives. In this blog, we will explore the pros and cons of aging in place versus moving into a senior living community.
What is aging in place?
Aging in place means staying in one's own home, staying in a place that is comfortable and familiar. It can include adding features to the home that make life easier or adding supplemental services to maintain the quality of life of the person living there.
What is senior living?
Senior living communities are residential communities designed for seniors that provide varying levels of assistance and care. It includes Active Adult Living, Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care communities.
There are pros and cons to both aging in place and moving into a senior living community for senior adults. These include different aspects of an older adult's life that are important, including social interaction, emergency planning, self-care, and independence.
Social Interaction:
Senior living communities provide seniors with opportunities to interact with their peers and engage in social activities, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. These communities do this through life enrichment programming and built-in social activities and outings. Social connection is critical for maintaining mental health and emotional well-being.
Aging in place can provide an opportunity for seniors to remain connected to their existing community. If seniors have an existing community aging in place could be the right choice.
Emergency Planning:
Senior living communities are designed to provide seniors with support and access to emergency services. They have staff trained to handle medical emergencies and power outages, ensuring residents' safety and well-being. Having these plans put into place helps bring peace of mind to residents and their families.
Aging in place requires a robust emergency plan, ensuring seniors have access to emergency services, and are prepared for potential emergencies such as power outages, natural disasters, or medical emergencies.
Self-Care:
Senior living communities provide residents with a range of services, such as dining, housekeeping, and transportation, freeing them from the burden of these tasks and allowing them to focus on self-care. Seniors are able to focus on what brings them joy rather than daily tasks that can feel tiresome. Senior living communities can also offer opportunities for seniors to pursue their hobbies and interests, stay active, and engaged.
Aging in place allows seniors to perform their activities of daily living and their self-care in an independent manner.
Independence:
Senior living communities offer residents a range of options, from independent living to assisted living, allowing seniors to maintain their independence while receiving the support they need. Seniors who live in communities often feel like they have more independence than they did while living in their previous homes.
Aging in place provides seniors with the ability to maintain their independence, live on their own terms, and continue to make decisions that impact their lives.
Challenges:
Moving into a senior living community can also present challenges. It can be difficult to adjust to new surroundings and make new friends. Senior living communities can also be expensive, which can be intimidating at first.
Aging in place also presents challenges. Seniors living alone may experience isolation and loneliness, leading to depression and other health issues. They may also face difficulty accessing healthcare services and may have a hard time keeping up with home maintenance tasks. Aging in place may not be suitable for seniors with significant medical issues or mobility limitations.
The decision to age in place or move into a senior living community is a personal one that depends on individual needs and preferences. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and it is essential to carefully consider each one before making a decision. Ultimately, the decision should prioritize the lifestyle and needs of the senior.
Are you interested in learning more about senior living communities and what they have to offer? Head over to our communities page on our website and find a community near you.
The respiratory system, like many of the other human systems (e.g., cardiovascular, digestive), is a wondrously complex and sophisticated arrangement of organs working together to maintain homeostasis.Contact an Office in Your AreaChronic obstructive pulmonary disease, more commonly referred to as COPD, is a health problem facing adults in the U.S. Because of its progressive nature and increased age as a leading factor, there is a greater prevalence of COPD in seniors. The good news is that many adults can easily reduce their risk of COPD through lifestyle management. COPD represents a group of lung diseases, with the two most common being emphysema and chronic bronchitis.Symptoms of COPD includeConstant coughingWheezingShortness of breathCoughing up mucusTightness in the chestResearch also suggests that there may be a link between poor air quality and COPD. The American Lung Association estimates that between 80-90% of COPD cases result from smoking. Unsurprisingly, secondhand smoke is a significant risk factor as well. Seniors should take the following steps to reduce their risk of COPD:Older adults that smoke should get support from a primary care physician and take steps to quit. There are many programs, services, and products that can help.Seniors should avoid contact with secondhand smoke whenever possible.Reducing exposure to air pollution can help relieve symptoms. Many cities issue poor air quality warnings when these warnings are in effect, seniors should limit outside activities. Seniors should avoid airborne irritants (chemicals, fumes, etc.) in the home.A healthy diet and exercise plan can improve lung function and overall health with direction from a physician.Older adults should understand the impact of aging on their respiratory system and reduce their risk of any related diseases, illnesses, or conditions.Doctors may recommend getting vaccinations for both influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia to guard against further breathing complications.Comfort Keepers Can HelpComfort Keepers elevates the human spirit for todays seniors and their families through a unique, individualized approach to care that helps seniors thrive and achieve greater wellbeing by fostering everyday positive moments, connection, and a more purposeful life no matter their age or acuity. As part of a healthcare team, an in-home caregiver can assist with activities that slow disease progression or reduce the risk for those with respiratory issues. Comfort Keepers caregivers can help by supporting physician-recommended health programs, preparing meals, encouraging prescribed physical activity, reminding seniors to take medications, and providing transportation to scheduled appointments. References:Healthline. Everything You Need to Know About Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Web. 2018.Everyday Health. 5 Best Ways to Prevent COPD by Chris Iliades, MD. Web. 2018.Aging Care. An Overview of COPD by National Institutes of Health. Web. 2017.Unity Point Health. The Top 8 Respiratory Illnesses and Diseases. Web. 2014.American Lung Association. Lung Capacity and Aging. Web. 2017.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Chronic Respiratory Disease. Web. 2017.
As seniors age, physical activities can have not only positive physical effects, but positive cognitive effects as well.Contact an Office in Your AreaIn one study, 100 nursing-home residents performed resistance exercises three times a week for 10 weeks. At the end, the exercise group could lift significantly more weight, climb more stairs, and walk faster and farther than their sedentary counterparts.Its been proven time and again that exercise is good for seniors physical and mental health. Regular exercise, even in small amounts, can improve mood, relieve stress and improve health. According to the CDC, four of the five most expensive health conditions older adults face can be prevented or managed with physical activity. But, only about 35% of adults over the age of 65 are physically active. Any senior starting a new exercise plan should consult with their physician. And, it is helpful for family and members of the care team to assist and support physical activity in any way they can. For those that are physically able to begin an exercise program, regular movement can help them live a more vibrant and healthy life. Some of the health benefits include:Improved mental health, mood and outlookPrevention, or improvement of, diseases such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and osteoporosisReduced pain from arthritis and minimizing its severityDecreased risk of fallsEach individual has different needs when it comes to exercise and varying health conditions that may need to be taken into consideration before beginning an exercise regimen. A health professional to determine the best approach to physical activity with senior care.There are a variety of ways to incorporate aerobic activity, strength-building exercises, stretching and balance all without leaving the comfort of home! Aerobic exercise Walking in place, dancing or aerobic routines can help get the heart rate up. These activities improve cardiovascular health and help older adults maintain a healthy weight. Strength building exercises there are many easy strength-building exercises that can help seniors build the muscles they need to do everyday activities and prevent muscle loss. And, exercises can be done with household items or using body weight, so no expensive equipment is required. Stretching Stretching before and after exercise can help prevent soreness after exercise. And, the additional benefit is improved flexibility, which is good for older adults physical health. For those looking to improve their flexibility even more, there are exercise routines available online that include yoga or stretching routines specifically for seniors.Balance exercises Balance exercises help seniors prevent falls and improve mobility. Yoga, tai chi, and other low-impact activities can all help improve balance and overall physical health.Those that need a little assistance getting started should not hesitate to reach out to their doctor, family or caregiver. It is never too late to adopt an active lifestyle! Comfort Keepers Can HelpFor seniors that need a little extra help living an active lifestyle, Comfort Keepers caregivers can help with encouragement, support and assistance with physician-prescribed exercise plans. And, caregivers can encourage overall health through meal planning, grocery shopping, meal preparation and activities. Our custom care plans focus on physical and mental health and wellness activities. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today. ReferencesCenters for Disease Control and Prevention. Adults Need More Physical Activity. Web. 2019.Health and Human Services. Facts & Statistics: Physical Activity. Web. 2017.National Council on Aging. Exercise Programs That Promote Senior Fitness. Web.Readers Digest Canada, 5 of the Best Exercises for Seniors to Build Strength, Improve Balance and Boost Heart Health. Web. Harvard Health Publishing. Exercise after age 70. Web. 2007.
More Americans are choosing to age in place. That is, they opt to stay in their homes rather than move to alternative retirement settings.But that often means they must modify their home, so it's not a danger to their safety and health when their physical abilities change.A new career field has risen to address this need: the Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS), a program of the National Association of Home Builders. Certified individuals assess homes to identify and recommend modifications to prevent injuries from falls and other risks.According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), one-third of Americans age 65 and over fall each year. The CDC adds that environmental factors lead to about half of all falls that occur at home. In addition to tripping hazards and poor lighting, these factors include a lack of needed modifications, such as bathroom grab bars, handicapped showers, stair railings and ramps. The organization offers a checklist to make sure an older adult's home is as safe as possible.Home modifications help seniors maintain quality of life. They often prevent injuries that lead to a loss of independence and early admission to an assisted living or long-term care facility.The following are examples of commonly recommended modifications:Install grab bars for toilets and tubs and install a walk-in tub and/or tub seatRemove unnecessary throw rugs and fasten down rugs or floor runners to prevent slippingMove furniture to create clear walking pathsKeep objects off the floor and coil or secure cords to the wall to prevent trippingReplace doorknobs with lever door handlesApply non-slip tape on uncarpeted indoor and outdoor stepsReplace standard light switches with rocker-style switchesIncrease the width of doorways and hallways to accommodate wheelchairs and, where possible, lower sinks and countertopsMove often-used items to lower cabinets to avoid the need for step stoolsRepair or replace loose handrails and install adequate lighting in stairwaysInstall an elevator or chair liftInstall an elevated dishwasher or one with drawers for easy accessReplace old stoves with induction cooktops to help prevent burnsReplace ceramic tile floors with hardwood or vinyl for safe standingShedding Light on Home ModificationWhen modifying a home for a senior, don't forget the importance of good lighting. Seniors need two to three times as much light in order to see as well as younger people.Good lighting -- in the form of natural light -- provides seniors safety and other advantages:Sunlight provides a good dose of vitamin D, which helps the body absorb more calcium to strengthen teeth and bones. Choose window treatments that let in sunlight, without glare, to enhance the health of seniors, many of who get outside less than they used to.Daylight also improves psychological health. It lessens the energy-zapping effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and other forms of depression.
Navigating the challenges presented by memory loss can be overwhelming, but at Heritage Oaks of Englewood, we're here to provide support every step of the way. Our innovative approach to memory care, exemplified by The Village Program, is tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals with memory impairments, including Alzheimer's and dementia.The Village Program focuses on personalized programming that engages residents in activities reflecting their former schedules, lifestyles, and interests, creating a sense of familiarity and comfort. By establishing caring personal relationships with our residents and offering enriching experiences, we aim to enhance their quality of life and overall well-being.To further enrich our memory care services, we incorporate It's Never 2 Late (iN2L) technology, designed specifically for seniors. This easy-to-use technology offers a wide range of programs and activities, including cognitive exercises, therapy activities, games, spiritual content, and opportunities for family interactions through Skype and photo sharing. With more than 4,000 programs to choose from, residents can stay engaged, connected, and stimulated in a way that's both enjoyable and meaningful.At Heritage Oaks of Englewood, we're dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive memory care that promotes dignity, autonomy, and a sense of belonging for all residents.
Heritage Oaks of Englewood is a wonderful place where residents can truly thrive! The emphasis on personalized assistance and enriching experiences is key to ensuring a high quality of life for everyone who calls it home. Having access to 24/7 assistance provides peace of mind for both residents and their families, knowing that support is always available. The planned activities and social events also foster a sense of community and engagement, which is so important for overall well-being. Heritage Oaks is dedicated to creating a warm and supportive environment where residents can truly enjoy their golden years.