Ageing in place is the ability to grow older in the home you love surrounded by a community that supports you. By continuing to live in your own home, regardless of age, income, ability level, seniors are able to maintain as much of their independence, comfort and lifestyle as possible.
As we age, many aspects of life fall out of our control. We become aware of physical and mental limitations that we may not have had to worry about when we were younger. This is why maintaining a sense of independence is so important for seniors. Often times, as other aspects of their lives change, this becomes the only thing they feel they have control over.
According to Dr Mitchell R La Plante in the Journal of Ageing & Social Policy : “True independence for the elderly involves control over their own lives and meaningful participation in the community; receiving services at home or in the community can play a large role in gaining this independence.”
Ageing in place and maintaining independence promote a sense of self-worth and accomplishment. These things are essential for any of us hoping to live a happy, fulfilling life. We should always remember how vital self-worth is, and do our best to encourage our loved one’s independence. Allowing them to live in the home they love is a good start, but it takes a little more than that to successfully age in place, especially if they’re having difficulties managing their own care.
One of the best things you can do to ensure your loved one is happy and healthy is to keep them involved in their own care. It’s easy to forget this when our parents/elderly relatives insist on being fiercely independent and reject any help they’re offered. This usually leads to us worrying about them more, and them, in turn, becoming more resistant to help.
In many cases, especially when a parent/elderly relative is fearful of change or is living with memory loss, discussing care options can be difficult. They may not have ever considered leaving their home. It’s important to know the benefits and disadvantages of ageing in place in order to support them through their decision making process. They will more likely comply with the care option if they can accept ownership of the decision made and make it their own.
The best advice is to start this conversation early to ensure loved ones needs and wishes are met.
