There is no place like home. Yes, home sweet home.
Understandably people want to stay in their own homes, even when they get old. That’s what “Aging In Place” means as I looked into it. As we get older, however, things easy before can become challenging. Going up and down the stairs or lifting heavy items into the cabinet are examples.
Good news is that aging in place is feasible provided we plan and account for our advancing health and wealth early. As a start, the National Institute on Aging offers a primer including tips on the common concerns for anyone who is thinking about aging in place for themselves or as a caregiver for someone else.
I like the idea of being independent, supplemented with some help as needed. It’s a viable option to institutional care. The key is to focus on our health and wealth now. Chances are our dependence on infrastructure and support network will grow. Nevertheless, an a la carte option can work with the aging in place.
Why cede control of our lives to others if we can manage it. Plan and prepare for our future. The more we can do for ourselves the less of a burden we will be to others. Know your options, and when the time comes, you’ll be ready.
What do you think about the aging in place?
Running with Buddha 