By GYC Senior Care

Aging in Place Guide: Live-In Strategies

Most research suggests it is not safe for seniors to live alone, which is a significant concern for families with aging parents. But for the elderly, independence means they have the freedom and liberty to make their own decisions. Seniors regain their dignity when they can cause significant life choices such as staying in their community and living in their own homes. They do not desire to be seen as “old” or “idle” but rather as active and functioning members of an organization and society.

The Center for Disease Control & Prevention defines “Aging in Place” as “the ability to live in one’s own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level.” Seniors that decide to “Age in Place” wish to stay at home as they get older. However, safety and security may be a concern; families of aging parents can empower their loved ones by prioritizing their independence while considering all the mental and physical changes they live and face every day.

At GYC Senior Care, we want to help you protect seniors’ independence through our GYC Senior Care Empowerment Aging in Place Guide: Live-In Strategies. Live-in care providers reside at your home and give attentive care assisting Seniors with quick chores, providing companionship, assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs),  meal preparation, shopping, medication reminders, and more.

Protecting seniors’ autonomy takes planning and preparation ahead of time. We have put a list of ten strategies you can use to empower your loved ones who wish to Age in Place.

1. Take into consideration what your loved one desires. Ask if there is a preference to live at home no matter what. Genuine conversations will guide the planning and preparation process.
2. Consider your loved one’s home preferences and the community they are currently living in. Do extensive research to ensure that the community will meet your loved one’s community needs and long-term needs.
3. Plan for future emergencies. Supply kits are going to be required. These include but are not limited to:
   1. Storable food
   2. Water
   3. Batteries
   4. Flashlights
   5. First-aid kit
   6. Contact lenses or eyeglasses
   7. Medications
   8. Photo identification
   9. Copies of prescriptions at hand and essential legal documents
   10. List of medications, physicians, and pharmacies
   11. Cash
4. Draft an escape plan and provide a copy to all caregivers.
5. Consider natural disasters. Protect your loved ones by ensuring that all benefits are accessible.
   1. Apply to receive benefits electronically in case of possible service interruptions. Benefits include but are not limited to health care providers.
   2. Register for Direct Express prepaid debit card.
6. Be flexible to possible changes in daily routines such: Activities of Daily Living.
7. Engage in your loved one’s active lifestyle. By supporting an active lifestyle, you will help prevent:
   1. Reduce memory problems
   2. Treat depression
   3. Prevent dementia and mental decline
8. Share all age in place care options that are available to your parents.
9. Have a cost conversation and be willing to look for possible financial solutions to support your loved one’s desire to age in place.
10. Meet the need for senior-companionship. Having someone visit your parents every day will give you insight into their well-being. You will know if they have fallen, have become sick, or if there have been any significant changes in their mood or behavior. It will also address safety, isolation, and loneliness concerns. But above all, you will be ensuring your loved one’s independence while providing and maintaining an extended-lasting sense of dignity and autonomy.

If you have any questions, call your GYC Senior Care family. We have available caregivers trained, ready, and excited to care for your loved ones through our live-in care services.  We are also available to assist you with your Senior’s Live-In Place planning and preparation. We believe seniors gain greater control of their well-being when they have access to the right information that is viable and relevant.

We exist to help empower your loved ones. Learn more at www.gycseniorcare.com or call us today at (847) 410-2126.

References:

Preparing for an Aging Population

Home and Community Preferences Survey

Home and Community Preferences Survey

Aging In Place: Growing Older At Home

Aging in Place: Tips on Making Home Safe and Accessible

Health and Well-Being Benefits of Singing for Older People

Share this post