Advantages of Aging in Place

According to a study conducted by the AARP, almost 90% of seniors reported they wanted to stay in their homes for as long as possible, and there are many benefits associated with aging at home. Rather than conforming to a nursing home's regimented schedules on meals, curfews, and visitations, elders maintain control over their own routines and decisions, contributing to a feeling of independence. This way, too, they can more easily stay connected with their community, friends, and family. Aging in place provides a sense of familiarity and comfort, potentially helping delay memory loss by ensuring the environment remains the same. Finally, staying at home is healthier, as there is a higher risk of infection due to weakening immune systems and the communal nature of nursing homes.

Measures to Enable Aging Independently

We have all heard about those who have managed to largely avoid expensive long term care options. Delaying the onset of disability by ensuring older adults can perform ADLs would allow  elders to live independently for longer. Research shows that meaningful social connections can greatly reduce the odds of developing age related disability. Along with maintaining a healthy lifestyle and practicing brain exercises, strong circles of support can greatly help delay disabilities.

Having a social network is a proven method to stave off the onset of disability and to help older adults remain in their homes longer. One study of 5,206 adults over 65, found that individuals with high levels of social engagement were 34% less likely to develop a disability in the future. The key is not the size of the social network, but the feeling of satisfaction with them. The size appears only to be correlated with good health, but engaging meaningfully with the network is what actually delays both the onset and progression of disability. This means that older adults who connect with their network often are less likely to develop a disability in the future, and disabled adults can slow the progression of their disease. Ensuring that older adults continue to feel fulfilled and helped by their social network is extremely important in this regard, as it is the subjective feeling of satisfaction that delays disability.