Most of us share the same hope as we grow older: we want to remain independent and stay in the home we know and love for as long as possible.
But aging in place successfully takes more than simply deciding to stay home. It takes some planning, an honest look at our surroundings, and sometimes, a willingness to make changes before we think we need them.
A good place to begin is by asking yourself two important questions: Is my home safe for me today, and will it still be safe if my mobility, balance, vision or strength changes in the years ahead?
We become so accustomed to our homes that we may no longer notice potential hazards. The rug that has been in the hallway for 20 years, the dimly lit staircase, the bathtub we have always stepped into, or the cozy chair in your living room that is difficult to lift yourself from may not seem dangerous. But as our abilities change, our homes may need to change with us.
That is why prevention is so important. Sometimes another set of eyes can see what we cannot. A home safety assessment can identify risks we have learned to overlook and recommend simple changes that may prevent a fall or injury. Making those changes isn’t an admission that you can no longer manage your home. Quite the opposite — it is a way of helping your home continue to work for you.
Preparing to age safely at home also means thinking about what would happen if you needed help. Ask yourself: If I fell or became ill at home today, how would I call for assistance?
Think through the small details before they become big ones. Keep important medical and emergency information in a “File of Life” on the refrigerator. Having a trusted family member, friend or neighbor you can call and consider a buddy system where someone checks in regularly. If reaching a phone could be difficult after a fall, an Alexa device or Google Home can provide another way to call for help.
These may feel like questions for “someday.” However, the best time to answer them is while everything is going well.
Has anyone ever recommended that you use a cane? It can be difficult to accept a walker, grab bar, shower chair or other assistive devices. We sometimes view these things as signs that we are giving up some of our independence. Instead, consider looking at them as tools that can help protect that independence. Accepting a helping hand may be exactly what allows someone to remain safely in the home they love.
There may come a time when remaining at home is no longer the safest or most practical choice. That conversation deserves just as much thought, compassion and planning. Local resources are available for free to help individuals and families understand their options and connect with services that can assist with finding an appropriate living arrangement.
Sometimes, staying safely at home may require additional support. Learning about care management and in-home caregiving options can help. Families may use a combination of insurance benefits, personal resources, family support and other available programs to cover costs. Local nonprofits and community programs may also help with equipment, modifications, assessments and connections to other resources, making aging in place safer and more affordable.
Explore Napa County’s directory of community services for older adults and people with disabilities at connectionsnapacounty.org.
Please keep in mind that independence doesn’t have to mean doing everything alone. If you have any questions, please call me at 707-492-3198.