Benefits of Aging in Place

Author

Rhythms Home Care - Christian Living Communities

Posted on

Jun 02, 2021

Book/Edition

Colorado - Denver Metro

share-this
Share This
As your parents age, it is common for friends and family to encourage them to think about moving into a senior living community to get the extra care they need. However, most seniors do not want to leave the home they have lived in for so many years.
According to a survey by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), more than three-quarters of Americans age 50 or older want to stay in their own home for as long as possible, even if they will need assistance.
Allowing elderly parents to grow older at home has many benefits. Seniors are able to:

Maintain a sense of independence and quality of life
Keep a less stressful routine due to familiarity of surroundings
Remain close to neighbors and a familiar community
Keep a sense of worth and purpose

How Much Support is Needed?
Before making any decisions, it is useful to consider how much help is needed, and what is available. It is important to be realistic regarding how much help family and friends can provide on a long-term basis. Making a list of specific care needs by day, week, and month will help determine the amount of care needed. Learn more aboutwhat to consider when choosing home care services.
In many cases aging in place costs less than a move to a senior living community. With customized are plans from a home care company, families can avoidcare giver burnoutand know their loved one is receiving the support they need.
What If My Loved One Lives with Dementia?
Is your loved one experiencing memory loss? Some people believe that if their loved one is experiencing dementia or has been diagnosed with Alzheimers that their only alternative is for them to move to a memory support community. However, this is not always the case. The familiarity of surroundings and general routine can be beneficial for those living with memory loss. A qualified care partner who has been trained in the area of memory loss can help your loved one age in place. With Rhythms Home Carememory support services, we focus on the strengths of each individual living with dementia rather than their deficiencies.
We consider family members as thoseliving with dementiaas well, because we know it is a whole community disease. Rhythms ensures every team member learns that dementia is a shift in the way a person experiences the world around him/her. Our job is to create environments where each person can navigate the world successfully and create worlds where life is worth living.
Is Your Home Safe?
Make sure your family member can age in place safely. Do any modifications need to be made to reduce the risk of falls? Do the door handles and faucets need to be replaced for ease of use? Modern technology, such as medical alert systems, should be considered as well. These important changes can help increase the level of independence and safety for older adults wanting to age in place. Consider thesetips from the National Institute on Agingon making an older adults home safe and accessible.
Aging in place is a good choice for people who are proactive and want to be involved in the decisions regarding their future. Having a support network of friends and family that value this decision making process with the older adult involved will assure great success. Aging in place has many benefits, the most important being the ability to live in safety, comfort, and dignity in a persons later years.

Other Articles You May Like

When Home Changes: Guiding Seniors with Comfort and Care

Moving can be one of the most stressful experiences in life, especially for seniors transitioning from a long-time residence to a new space. At A Call to Order Professional Organizers, we understand that this shift goes beyond merely packing boxes and unpacking; its an emotional journey. Our mission is to ease this transition and create a comforting process that transforms a new house into a home. In this blog, well share insights and tips for navigating this pivotal life change with heart, dignity, and care.The Emotional Landscape of MovingUnderstanding the Feelings of MovingWhen seniors are faced with moving, they often experience a whirlwind of emotions. Its not just about moving items from one location to another but leaving behind cherished memories and familiar surroundings. Feelings of anxiety, sadness, and uncertainty are common. As professional organizers, we recognize these emotions and create a safe space for seniors to express them.Encouraging open conversations is an important first step. We suggest asking questions that foster connection and understanding. For instance, What do you love most about your current home? or What are you most excited or nervous about in your new space? This dialog not only helps seniors articulate their feelings but also allows us to tailor our services to address their unique concerns and preferences.Tips for Managing Emotional ChallengesTake Your Time: Encourage seniors to pace the moving process. Rushing can heighten anxiety, so break down the moving tasks into manageable segments. For example, focus on one room at a time, ensuring a sense of accomplishment while preserving emotional well-being.Create a Memory Book: Encourage the gathering of photographs and keepsakes before packing begins. This not only provides an opportunity to reminisce but also helps maintain connections to their past. Creating a memory book can serve as a tangible reminder of cherished moments.Stay Connected: Remind seniors to involve family and friends during the process. Whether it's hosting a packing party or having loved ones help unpack, the presence of familiar faces can alleviate feelings of isolation and evoke comfort and joy.Mindfulness Practices: Introduce mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or guided meditation, to help manage stress. These practices can be integrated into their daily routine to foster calmness.Transforming a New Space into a HomeThe Role of Familiarity in a New EnvironmentOnce the move is underway, the next key focus is transforming a new, unfamiliar space into a comfortable home. Familiarity plays a crucial role in helping seniors adapt to their new surroundings. At A Call to Order Professional Organizers, we specialize in creating environments that reflect the personalities and lives of our clients.One way to achieve this is by incorporating familiar decor and personal items into their new space. We suggest guiding seniors in selecting which cherished belongings they would like to bring along. Items such as family photos, beloved furniture, or heirloom decorations can evoke comfort and familiarity, easing the adjustment to a new home.Tips for Making a New House Feel Like HomeLayout Design: Collaborate with seniors to design a layout that mimics their previous homes flow. Familiar arrangements can help trigger positive memories and feelings. This practice can significantly enhance their sense of belonging in their new space.Personal Touches: Encourage the creation of a personal sanctuary, whether thats a cozy reading nook by the window or a spot for their favorite plants. Allowing seniors to infuse personal touches helps to create a unique space that reflects their identity.Involve the Community: Encourage seniors to explore community resources or local groups to get acquainted with their new surroundings. Activities like community events, volunteer opportunities, or local clubs can cultivate a sense of connection and belonging in their new environment.Stay Open to Adjustment: Reminding seniors that its okay to feel uncomfortable at first can help alleviate anxiety. Encourage them to be patient with themselves and to take the time needed to truly settle in and make new memories.At A Call to Order Professional Organizers, we believe that moving should be a positive, fulfilling experience rather than a source of stress or anxiety. By fostering emotional connections through understanding, patient communication, and personalized support, we help seniors navigate the complexities of their transition with compassion and care. As we guide them in making their new house feel like home, we celebrate the journey of creating new memories while cherishing the past. Together, we embark on this meaningful path toward comfort and belonging, ensuring every senior feels at home in their new surroundings.

Understanding the Difference Between Home Health and Private Duty Care

Understanding the Difference Between Home Health and Private Duty CareOne of the most common questions we receive is, Whats the difference between Home Health and Private Duty care? While both services provide essential support for individuals in need of care at home, they differ significantly in purpose, structure, and funding. Understanding these differences can help you make informed decisions about the best care options for your loved ones.What Is Home Health Care?Home Health Care is a medical service that focuses on helping individuals recover from illness, injury, surgery, or often following a hospital stay. This type of care is typically short-term and is designed to restore or improve a patients ability to function independently.Key Characteristics of Home Health Care1.        Payor Source: Home Health is usually covered by health insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid. To qualify, a patient must meet specific requirements, including a qualifying event (e.g., hospital discharge or significant change in health status) and a physicians order to initiate services.2.        Goal-Oriented: The primary aim of Home Health is to improve the patients condition within a defined time frame. For example, physical therapy may be provided to help regain mobility after surgery, or a nurse may assist in managing medications during recovery.3.        Medical Focus: Home Health includes skilled medical services such as wound care, injections, monitoring vital signs, and therapy (physical, occupational, or speech).4.        Short-Term Duration: Services typically last a few weeks to a few months depending on the patients progress and medical needs.What Is Private Duty Care?In contrast, Private Duty Care provides non-medical support that is tailored to meet the individuals daily living needs. This care is designed to enhance quality of life and allow individuals to age in place or remain safely at home for as long as possible.Key Characteristics of Private Duty Care1.        Payor Source: Private Duty care is primarily funded out-of-pocket by individuals or families. In some cases, long-term care insurance may cover services, but this varies by policy.2.        Flexible and Personalized: Private Duty care offers tremendous flexibility, accommodating everything from a few hours a week to 24/7 care. Services are customized to the specific needs of the client and their family.3.        Non-Medical Support: Services include assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, light housekeeping, companionship, and transportation to appointments.4.        Long-Term Option: Unlike Home Health, Private Duty care can be a long-term solution supporting individuals for months or years as their needs evolve.How They Work TogetherWhile Home Health and Private Duty care serve different purposes, they often complement each other. For instance, a patient may receive Home Health services after surgery to address medical needs but transition to Private Duty care for ongoing support with daily tasks once Home Health ends.Advantages of Danville Private DutyCareAt Danville Support Services, we are proud to offer high-quality Private Duty care tailored to your loved ones needs. Here are some of the unique benefits we provide:1.        Bridging the Gap After Home Health: When Home Health services conclude, families may feel overwhelmed by the responsibilities of caregiving. Our Private Duty caregivers can step in to fill this gap ensuring your loved one continues to receive the support they need.2.        Peace of Mind for Families: Private Duty care allows family caregivers to take a much-needed break. Whether youre planning a vacation, attending work, or managing personal commitments, you can rest assured that your loved one is in capable hands.3.        Long-Term Care Insurance: If your private duty care provider has a home health license, they may take long-term care insurance. With this payment option, the client is reimbursed for the cost of their care by their insurance provider.  4.        Reduced Hospital Readmissions: With consistent care and monitoring, our services help prevent complications that could lead to hospital readmissions.5.        Licensed and Insured: We adhere to the highest standards of care, ensuring all our caregivers are licensed, insured, and well-trained.6.        Continuous Training for Caregivers: Our caregivers undergo regular training to stay up to date with best practices ensuring the highest level of service.7.        Nursing Services Available: In addition to non-medical care, we offer nursing services for clients who require occasional medical oversight in Salt Lake City.8.        Serving Multiple Locations: We proudly serve Salt Lake City, Park City, and St. George, making it convenient for families across these regions to access our care.Why Choose Private Duty Care?Private Duty care provides a holistic approach to caregiving. It not only supports the physical well-being of individuals but also enhances their emotional and social health. Our caregivers provide companionship reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness which are common among older adults.In addition, Private Duty care is an excellent resource for families. The emotional and physical demands of caregiving can be overwhelming leading to burnout. By entrusting us with caregiving responsibilities, families can focus on building meaningful relationships with their loved ones without the stress of day-to-day tasks.Customizing Care for Your Loved OneAt Danville Support Services, we recognize that every individual has unique needs. Thats why we take the time to create personalized care plans for each client. Whether your loved one requires occasional assistance or round-the-clock care, well work with you to design a solution that fits your situation. You can reach us at 801-363-1521. Contact Us TodayIf youre navigating the complexities of Home Health versus Private Duty care, were here to help. Contact Danville Support Services to learn more about how we can support your family and provide the peace of mind you deserve or danvillesupportservices.com.    

Holding Onto Love Through Change: Senior Move Management with A Call to Order Professional Organizers

Change can be a challenging experience, especially for seniors who are moving from a home filled with decades of cherished memories. Each room tells a story, and each item holds a piece of their life. At A Call to Order, we understand that moving is not just a logistical task; it's an emotional journey that requires compassion and care. Our dedicated team of professional organizers specializes in senior move management, helping clients find comfort and connection as they transition to a new chapter in their lives. Here are some insights and tips to guide you or your loved ones through this vital transition while holding onto the love that brings warmth to every new beginning.Understanding the Emotional Impact of a MoveFor seniors, moving can trigger a mix of emotionsfrom weary nostalgia to fear of the unknown. The thought of leaving behind the home where they've built their lives can be overwhelming. Here are some emotions that often arise during this significant transition:Nostalgia and Sadness: Leaving a home filled with memories can evoke feelings of grief. Each room holds reminders of joyous family gatherings, milestone celebrations, and quiet moments of reflection.Anxiety About Change: The uncertainty of a new environment can lead to anxiety. Seniors may worry about making new friends, adapting to a different routine, or feeling out of place in their new residence.Feeling Overwhelmed: The logistics of moving can be daunting, particularly when coupled with the emotional weight of the process. Sorting through a lifetime of belongings can raise tough decisions about what to keep and what to let go.At A Call to Order, we create a supportive environment where these emotions are acknowledged and validated. Moving forward with compassion allows our clients to cherish their past while embracing the future with open hearts.Tips to Navigate the Transition with LoveWhile the moving process can be emotional, it also offers opportunities for growth and connection. Here are some practical tips to help seniors transition smoothly while holding onto the love that fills their lives:1. Start Early: Planning Is KeyEncourage seniors to begin the moving process well in advance. Starting early alleviates the pressure and allows time for thoughtful reflection. Create a timeline that outlines steps to take each week, breaking the process into manageable tasks. Whether its sorting through one room at a time or packing essential items, taking small steps helps build momentum and instills a sense of accomplishment.2. Honor the MemoriesAs seniors go through their belongings, its essential to honor the memories they hold. Encourage them to create a memory book or scrapbook where they can document cherished moments associated with specific items. Photographs, written memories, or even small notes can help preserve the essence of the past without the need to keep every physical item. This practice fosters gratitude and eases the emotional weight of letting go of certain belongings.3. Involve Family and FriendsMoving is an opportunity for family bonding. Encourage seniors to involve their loved ones in the sorting process. Having familiar faces around can create a sense of comfort and security. Together, they can share stories, laugh over joyful memories, and support each other in difficult decisions. This shared experience creates a tapestry of connection that underscores the love holding the family together.4. Embrace a Keep, Donate, and Discard StrategyHelp seniors simplify the decision-making process by categorizing belongings. A practical approach is to create three distinct areas: Keep, Donate, and Discard. Encourage them to keep items that resonate with their hearts and contribute to their new life. Unwanted items can be donated to local charities, which provides the added joy of knowing they're helping others. Discarding items that no longer serve a purpose lightens both physical and emotional burdens.5. Create a Warm, Inviting New SpaceAs seniors transition into their new homes, assist them in designing a space that feels comforting and personal. Use familiar items, such as beloved photographs, furniture, or decorative elements, to create a sense of continuity. Encourage them to create a comfort corner filled with cherished items that evoke positive memories. This space can serve as a sanctuary where they can retreat, reflect, and reconnect with their past while embracing their new surroundings.6. Seek Professional SupportPartnering with professional organizers can significantly ease the transition process. At A Call to Order, we specialize in senior move management, understanding the intricate balance between emotional support and practical logistics. Our compassionate team is trained to assist with the entire moving process, from decluttering and packing to setting up the new living space. We are not just organizers; we are allies in the journey, helping to ensure a seamless transition filled with love and care.Embracing Change with LoveMoving can be a bittersweet experience for seniors, but it also presents a chance for new beginnings brimming with opportunity. At A Call to Order, we believe that holding onto love through change is essential, fostering connections that transcend time and space. By approaching the moving process with compassion, creativity, and thoughtful planning, we help seniors honor the past while embracing the future.If you or a loved one is preparing for a move, remember that you do not have to navigate this journey alone. Let A Call to Order be your trusted partner, guiding you every step of the way as you hold onto the love that fills your heart. Together, we can turn a challenging transition into a beautiful opportunity for renewal and joy.

Local Services By This Author

Rhythms Home Care - Christian Living Communities

Non-Medical 9570 South Kingston Court, Englewood, Colorado, 80112

We are Rhythms Home Care. Our quality and longevity have been unmatched since 1995. Mission-Driven Care, Available 24/7, No Contract, 4-hour Minimum. Our companions are carefully matched with the intent of becoming an extension of your family. We have been empowering Colorado adults in their successful aging journey since 1995 Youre the Super Hero We're Your Side-Kick! Call today for your free in-home assessment.