Stay in Your Own Home Longer by Adopting These Ageing in Place Tips

Staying at home for longer as you age, often referred to as “ageing in place,” can be a desirable and achievable goal with careful planning and the right support systems in place. Here are some strategies and considerations to help you or a loved one remain in your home comfortably and safely as you get older. Even if you currently feel fit and healthy, it is never too soon to start thinking about these ageing in place tips.

1. Home Modifications:

Accessibility: Consider making your home more accessible by installing ramps, grab bars in bathrooms, and a stairlift on the staircase. Ensure doorways are wide enough for mobility aids like wheelchairs or walkers.

Bathroom Safety: Equip bathrooms with non-slip flooring, raised toilet seats, and walk-in showers or tubs. A shower bench or chair can also be beneficial. Ideally, level access showers or mobility baths can be a great investment.

Kitchen Modifications: Lowering countertops and cabinets or installing pull-out shelves can make the kitchen more user-friendly.

 2. Technology and Home Automation:

Invest in smart home technology, such as voice-activated assistants, smart thermostats, and remote monitoring systems that can provide assistance and enhance security.

 3. Healthcare and Support Services:

Establish a network of healthcare professionals who can provide in-home care, including nurses, physical therapists, and occupational therapists, if needed.

Utilise telehealth services for remote medical consultations and prescription refills when possible. Specsavers, for example, now offer home appointments for hearing and eye tests for those who cannot get into their local store.

 4. Medication Management:

Use pill organisers or medication management apps to help keep track of medications and ensure they are taken as prescribed.

 5. Nutrition and Meal Planning:

Plan nutritious meals in advance or consider meal delivery services to ensure a balanced diet. Invite friends or family for regular meals together or consider community dining programs.

Focus on a plant-based, Mediterranean diet as much as possible as medical professionals agree this is generally the healthiest option for people of all ages.

 6. Social Engagement:

Stay socially connected through community activities, local senior centres, or online groups and classes. Loneliness and social isolation can negatively impact mental and physical health.

Arrange regular visits from friends and family members.

 7. Regular Exercise and Physical Activity:

Engage in regular physical activity appropriate for your fitness level. Depending on your abilities, this could include walking, chair exercises, yoga, swimming or gardening.

Consider working with a personal trainer or physical therapist to develop a customised exercise routine. If choosing a personal trainer, ensure you find someone with appropriate qualifications and a holistic, whole-body approach rather than someone focussed on building muscle, for example.

It’s never too late to increase levels of physical exercise and incredible important if you are thinking of ageing in place plans so you can stay in your own home as long as possible as you age.

 8. Financial Planning:

Ensure your financial affairs are in order, including retirement savings, insurance coverage, and long-term care planning. Consult with a financial advisor to make informed decisions.

 9. Home Safety:

Regularly assess your home for safety hazards, such as loose rugs, clutter, or poor lighting. Address these issues promptly to reduce the risk of accidents as trips and slips are more likely to result in broken bones as we age.

Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors and test them regularly.

 10. Transportation:

Explore transportation options if driving is no longer feasible. Public transportation, senior transportation services, or ride-sharing apps can help you stay mobile.

 11. Legal and Estate Planning:

Review and update your legal documents, including your will, power of attorney, and healthcare proxy. Ensure your wishes are known and respected.

 12. Emotional Well-being:

Prioritise mental health by engaging in activities that bring you joy, practising relaxation techniques, and seeking emotional support when needed.

 13. Regular Check-ups:

Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your overall health and address any concerns promptly.

 14. Consider In-Home Care:

If necessary, explore in-home care options provided by trained caregivers who can assist with activities of daily living, medication management, and companionship.

 15. Stay Informed:

Stay informed about available resources and support services in your community, such as Meals on Wheels, home maintenance assistance, and support groups.

Ageing in place is achievable with careful planning and by adapting your home and lifestyle to your changing needs. Regularly reassess your situation and make adjustments as required to ensure that you can enjoy the comfort and familiarity of your home as you age.

UK-Stairlift is a local stairlift company covering the Essex area. If you’re looking for guidance on home stairlifts to regain independence within your own home, don’t hesitate to contact them today.

We hope you find our fifteen ageing in place tips useful and that they help you lead a happy life in your own home for as long as possible.