National Aging in Place Week

Most people, when asked, say they want to live in their home until they die. After all, it is familiar. They have spent, in some cases, much of their adult life in this home. They know many of their neighbors. They know the closest places to pick up groceries, medications or anything else they might need. They know their house like the back of their hand. They could find their way to any spot in the dark.

What they don’t know is how their needs may change as they age. Only 25% of people over the age of 65 think they will need any help as they grow older. In reality, 70% do need help. Women need significant help for the last 3.7 years of life and men for 2.2 years.

What kinds of topics are covered? The topics that we have learned are important: How does one find in-home help and what does it cost? What home modifications provide the biggest bang for your buck? What is an adult day program? What legal documents do I need to get in place so that my wishes will be known? What technologies and websites are the most useful for seniors during this pandemic?

Most people don’t learn something until they need to. However, it is hard to learn something new or respond wisely after a crisis has happened. The National Aging in Place Council can help you feel prepared.