Some people thrive in retirement communities, but more and more people of our generation are talking about aging in place. We have all heard stories about stubborn old folks digging in their heels and refusing to move. Ultimately something horrible happens and the decision is taken away from them.
So many people have decided that they want to stay in their own homes that the movement has actually been given a name. This movement is now known as aging in place. Aging in place means growing old in a place where you can be surrounded by people and things that are familiar to you. As long as health and finances permit, most people will do whatever it takes to remain independent. What it doesn’t mean is that you can act like a two year old because you think being stubborn is cool. If you think things through, you might still be able to call the shots. Other people will be more supportive of your decision if they feel that you have given it a lot of thought.
Aging in place doesn’t necessarily mean staying in the family home. In some instances relocating to be near family members becomes necessary. A good support system is paramount at times like this. You will have options, although you might not be pleased with all of them. Your biggest choice is going to be where, how and with whom you are going to live. Examine all of your options and be open to any ideas that sound good to you. Take into consideration the need for in-home care, retirement communities, assisted-living facilities or adult family homes. On a cozier note, you might consider living with or near other family members. If you want to age in place you need a good support system.
Aging in place usually isn’t something that happens automatically. Aging in place requires planning. Do your homework and study as hard for this eventuality as you did when you were making a career choice. First of all, have you been to a doctor lately? I don’t know about your parents but mine didn’t go to the doctor unless they were really sick. I still have friends who do not go to the doctor unless they are on deaths door. This is not a good thing. I think we are very fortunate that preventive health care has become a mainstay in our society. Good health is a basic need and a criterion for living out your life on your terms. If you are not healthy you will not be able to participate in this movement. Chronic disease and lack of stamina are the most common reason for failure to thrive. If you exercise, eat properly and take advantage of all that preventive health care has to offer, you have taken the first step. The second step is getting help to modify your home. It is hard to spend the money on things that you think you don’t need, but most of our homes are not suitable for meeting our changing needs. Relocating or modify your home to make it safe and comfortable can make aging in place a reality. If you are active, involved and willing to accept help, you can make this happen.
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