The ability to stay and live safely, independently, and comfortably in your own home and community has become a top priority for many older adults. According to AARP, nearly 90% of adults over age 65 want to remain age in place as they grow older. But making that desire a reality requires thoughtful planning, practical adjustments, and often, a little support from loved ones or professionals, like Boomer Benefits, a trusted Medicare broker.
In this article, we’ll walk through the best tips for aging at home after retirement, from home modifications and safety measures to healthcare and community support systems.
Assessing the Home Environment
The first step to aging in place is assessing the safety and functionality of the home. Ask yourself:
- Are the doorways wide enough for a walker or wheelchair?
- Are there steps without railings or rooms without adequate lighting?
- Is the bathroom accessible and slip-resistant?
- Are frequently used items easy to reach without bending or climbing?
A professional home safety assessment can be incredibly useful. Occupational therapists or aging-in-place specialists can evaluate a home and provide tailored modification recommendations.
Home Modifications for Safety and Comfort
Small changes can make a big difference if you’ve found some safety and functionality issues. Some common home modifications include installing grab bars in the bathroom near the toilet and inside the shower, replacing standard doorknobs with lever-style handles for easier use, and adding non-slip flooring or rugs with slip-resistant backing. Improving lighting, especially in stairwells, hallways, and entryways, as well as installing ramps or stair lifts to help with navigation in the home, are also quick modification changes.
For larger renovations, like widening doorways or installing a walk-in shower, consult a contractor with experience in aging-in-place design. The goal is to reduce fall risks and increase accessibility without compromising comfort.
Health and Mobility Considerations
Aging in place doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few key considerations for managing health effectively while at home:
- Medication management: Use pill organizers or electronic reminders like phone apps to ensure medications are taken as prescribed.
- Mobility aides: Canes, walkers, wheelchairs, and scooters should be fitted properly and used as needed. A physical therapist can provide guidance on acquiring durable medical equipment.
- Telehealth services: Many doctors now offer virtual visits, making it easier to access care without leaving home. For those 65 and older and on Medicare, you may want to check on current coverage of this service. While Telehealth was expanded due to the COVID pandemic, it has been threatened to be discontinued for certain health conditions.
- Emergency alert systems: Wearable devices with fall detection or emergency call buttons provide peace of mind for individuals and their families.
For those with chronic health issues, setting up a care plan with a primary doctor or care coordinator can help manage appointments, home health visits, and therapy schedules.
Creating a Social Support System
Loneliness and social isolation from living alone can have serious impacts on mental and physical health. That’s why social connection is a key part of aging in place successfully. Regular phone calls, video chats, or in-person visits with family and friends make a difference in staying connected.
Many neighborhoods have senior centers that offer meals, exercise classes, and outings as community resources. If driving is no longer safe, consider local transportation programs, ride services for seniors, or volunteer driver programs. Staying involved in a church or community organization helps maintain a sense of purpose and belonging for those who were used to attending regular services in their younger years.
Building a circle of support doesn’t have to be complicated. Even a few reliable contacts can provide companionship, assistance, and encouragement.
Planning for the Unexpected
Aging in place requires planning not just for today but for what might change down the road. Consider having legal and financial documents like a will, power of attorney, and advance directives. If there is an issue with staying in one’s home, have a backup housing plan with options for assisted living or family caregiving, just in case needs change.
Review your Medicare coverage regularly and consider policies and coverage that support long-term care needs. Having these conversations early before a potential crisis makes future decisions much easier and less stressful.
Leveraging Technology
Modern technology can make aging in place more manageable than ever. Some helpful tools include:
- Smart home devices, such as voice assistants through Amazon or Google, can set reminders, control lights in the home, or make quick calls.
- Automatic pill dispensers that provide alerts and dispense medication at the right times.
- Video doorbells and home security systems for additional safety.
- Health monitoring tools include digital blood pressure cuffs, glucose meters, and wearable heart monitors. Medicare may cover these items if they are considered medically necessary.
Technology should always serve a purpose but choose tools that genuinely improve daily life and are easy to use.
When to Ask for Help
One of the most empowering aspects of aging in place is knowing when to ask for help. Whether it’s from family, friends, neighbors, or professional caregivers, accepting assistance ensures continued independence rather than hindering it.
In-home care providers can assist with personal hygiene, meal preparation, housekeeping, transportation, and companionship. Even a few hours of help a week can dramatically reduce stress and risk of injury while preserving the ability to stay home longer.
Final Thoughts
Aging in place is about more than staying in your house! It’s about maintaining independence, dignity, and quality of life in a familiar environment. With the right preparation, support systems, and mindset, older individuals can continue living at home comfortably and safely for years. It’s never too early to start planning. Whether aging in place yourself or helping a loved one do so, taking proactive steps today lays the groundwork for a more secure, confident tomorrow.