Mark Reckman - Aging in Place

Most older adults want to remain in their homes and communities as they age rather than move into assisted living facilities or nursing homes. To accomplish that, those folks must take steps to protect their physical, mental, and financial welfare.What Does it Mean to Age in Place? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines aging in place as a senior's "ability to live in one's own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level." According to AARP, more than three-quarters of older adults prefer to age in place. To do that, consider these issues:Resources to Manage Chronic DiseasesSeniors with a chronic disease should focus on:• Accessibility in the home;• Proper nutrition; and• Dental health. Research has found that proper oral care can help prevent the progression of many chronic diseases.Eating Well While Aging at HomeProper nutrition is a vital part of caring for yourself at home. If you need meals, Meals on Wheels is a great resource here in Cincinnati. We have severalnon-profits that offer meals on wheels. I toured Meals on Wheels S.W. Ohio some years ago up in Price Hill. Top notch operation. They make the meals onsite and deliver them to your door. Neighborhood senior centers, places of worship, and charities may also provide a hot meal while you make new friends. If you cannot leave your home, Door Dash will deliver food at your door for little or no cost. But, restaurant food may not be so "balanced".Support for MobilityAging in place is a much more realistic goal if you can walk for exercise, access transportation to medical appointments and errands, and maintain a safe environment at home, free from increased fall risks. Consider simple changes you can make to your home to promote your safety. Examples of helpful modifications around the house include handrails, temporary ramps, no-slip bath rugs, and assistive seating.Mental Health, Substance Abuse, and Memory Care ServicesThere is an increased need among older adults for mental health, substance abuse, and memory care services. An estimated 20 percent of older adults have a mental health disorder, and the total number of seniors with a mental health or memory care diagnosis is likely to increase over time. Suggestions for addressing mental health concerns among older people include:• Focusing on preventative care. Identify warnmg signs of depression, anxiety, and memory care problems.• Look for common signs of a substance abuse. This is an often overlooked area of older adult mental health care. Some common signs to watch for include reduced hygiene, unexplained bruises, erratic behavior, and the smell of alcohol on their breath.The Need for Social Connection Among Aging AdultsOlder adults benefit tremendously from social connections and interaction. Consider:• Joining an organization or social club• Volunteering• Learning a new hobby• Attending a religious institution• Adopting a pet• Using technology to stay in touch with friends and familyWearables and Smart Monitoring DevicesTechnology can help monitor our health and that of our aging loved ones. Examples of wearable health and smart-home monitoring devices include:• Smartwatches and smartphones.• Medical alert bracelets and necklaces.• Sensors and smart locks can alert caregivers when their loved one living at home leaves a window, garage, or door open, or has forgotten to lock them.• Small plugs, which can automatically turn on and off lights, space heaters, thermostats, security cameras, and more.