By Michelle Thomas and Jim Kordenbrock Jr., Gerontologist
Home is a refuge of familiarity and comfort for many people. As we age, we are frequently reminded of the qualities and experiences that have bonded us to our homes, while tugging at our desire to retain our independence as we choose the familiar surroundings of home. We call this desire “aging in place.”
The United States is seeing an unprecedented growth in the 65 and older population due to the aging baby-boom generation. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, by 2050, the number of Americans aged 65 and older is projected to increase by 47% to 82 million from only 58 million in 2022.
According to the National Council on Aging, 88% of seniors want to live at home or age in place, for as long as possible, versus transitioning to other options, such as a senior residential or assisted living facility. The great news is that more older adults can meet their daily care needs in their own home, with some type of in-home support, allowing them to age in place for as long as possible. Many people assume in-home care is expensive, but in most cases, it costs less than moving into a senior living facility.
When considering aging in place, the types of care vary and are dependent on the needs of the aging adult. The key to aging in place is helping the older adult continue doing the daily activities needed to help them function comfortably and safely in their own home. In most cases, the support includes activities associated with companionship, which typically involves helping with errands, grocery shopping, light housekeeping, meal preparation, medication reminders, and social engagement. It also can include personal care, which involves help with bathing and grooming, dressing, bathroom needs, mobility assistance, and assistance with eating and drinking (activities of daily living or “ADLs”). Finally, it includes “respite care” which provides support for a family caregiver who has taken on the sometimes-challenging task of caring for their own family member.
There are significant health benefits of aging in place noted by multiple publications and research studies. The Journal of Applied Gerontology reported evidence that in-home caregivers not only provide functional support to aging adults, for example, mobility help, meal preparation, personal care, etc., but they also enhance and strengthen the physical and mental well-being of those they care for.
Keep in mind, if you are deciding between aging in place using in-home care or transitioning to other options, the first step is to consider the type of help you need now and what you may need in the future. There are other important considerations, such as how well your home meets or can be adapted to your current needs, future anticipated physical needs, and ensuring your surroundings are safe and secure. It is also important to talk with your family, friends, and even your healthcare provider about what they feel you need to successfully age in place.
The need for professional caregivers will continue to rise dramatically given the magnitude of the aging population in the U.S. Finding the best caregiver that is a great fit for you, your needs, and your personality is essential. The caregiver selection process should not be overlooked and is an important part of the planning process.
It is strongly recommended that you work with an in-home caregiver agency that is licensed, bonded, insured, and directly employs the caregivers. The benefit of an agency is that they absorb the risk by conducting criminal background checks, DMV checks, drug testing, reference checks, ensuring completion of all State-required training, carrying liability and workers compensation insurance and by complying with all labor law regulations.
You should use caution when considering a private caregiver from a registry or hiring independently. Keep in mind that you become their employer, which means you assume all the risks, including work-related injuries, theft, violation of employment laws, keeping up with payroll and payroll taxes, liability insurance, and workers compensation.
Aging in place is a desire shared by most older adults as they progress on their aging journey. It is considered by an overwhelming majority of seniors as an important life choice goal that allows them to maintain autonomy, familiarity, dignity, continued strong social, community, and family engagement, as well as better physical and mental well-being. Aging in place is simply a better choice for many aging adults.
