Preserved independence is highly valued by older adults. 90% of seniors asked by the AARP all said they want to stay in their own home as they age. The notion is that living at home equals independence, and living in a retirement community means losing your independence. For many seniors, aging independently in their own home, also called aging in place, is perceived to be the most comfortable and economic option.
But just because someone lives in their existing home does not necessarily mean that they are or will continue to be independent. A senior who opts to stay in their own home may start off living truly independently, requiring no outside assistance with the activities of daily living such as bathing and dressing, and while that may remain the case indefinitely, it may change.
For example, should a senior’s health decline, they may require more and more outside assistance, or may require more complicated health care needs. Then the question becomes who will take on those tasks, either an adult child or other relative, or seek the hiring of an outside caregiver such as a home health worker or nursing aide.
It is also common for seniors to become socially isolated when living alone, as their health and mobility decline and their social circle shrinks. Senior loneliness impacts as many as 8 million people in America, and is a serious issue that can contribute to early death.
Staying in the home has many advantages, both economic and emotional as it allows seniors to feel more control and independence in their lives, but managing it successfully requires careful consideration of their current and potential needs in the future.