According to AARP, 90 percent of seniors would rather live at home (age in place), rather than move to an assisted living facility or nursing home. There are many reasons why seniors want to remain at home. Many memories live there too. Holidays, birthdays, children growing up in their home, friendly neighbors, nearby family, all of which contribute to the comfort and familiarity of daily living. Loss of independence and fear of being mistreated in facilities can also be a factor.

This popular desire to remain at home may not be possible for all seniors. A senior’s medical condition needs to be evaluated by a physician to determine if he or she is capable of living alone at home. If it is not practical to live at home, an independent living or an assisted living facility should be considered. Continuing Care Communities offer independent living, assisted living, and skilled care within the same facility. This concept allows a senior to enter into independent living and then transition to higher levels of care if and when needed. These facilities can offer a number of advantages. Some of which are; no worries about home maintenance, free transportation provided by most facilities eliminates concerns about diminished driving skills, prepared meals mean better nutrition and well being. Socialization improves dramatically since friendships develop with other residents. There can also be a general feeling of safety by having staff on call in a facility and a sense of security from crime and other fears.

If after evaluation of the alternatives, the decision is made for the senior to remain at home, modifications may be necessary for safety omeprazole dr 40 mg capsule. A two-story home poses the most problems if the senior has limited mobility. If a chair lift is not adequate, then modifications to the first floor may be necessary to provide a bedroom and a full bathroom.

Housing features that seniors find especially important to them include: Safety features such as non-slip floor surfaces; bathroom aides such as grab bars; a personal alert system that allows people to call for help in emergencies; entrances without steps; wider doorways for wheelchair access. It may also be necessary to hire a caregiver through a reputable agency to provide hourly or live-in care for round the clock assistance with the activities of daily living. If obtaining home care services is not a workable arrangement then moving to a facility may be the best solution.