If you or your loved one is approaching their golden years or has already entered them, you may be thinking about the different options available regarding what lifestyle to maintain as you age.
There are many factors that affect seniors’ lives as they get older, including their health, socioeconomic status, and relationship with their families. Depending on these factors, there comes a time when every adult will have to decide whether aging in place is a reasonable expectation for them or not.
What Is Aging in Place and Who Is It Best for?
Aging in place is the concept of an aging person continuing to live in the residence of their choice (presumably the home that they already own or rent) for as long as they are able. Aging in place can mean living entirely independently, but it can also mean relying on an in-home nurse or a care professional either on a part-time or full-time basis.
This lifestyle is best for seniors that are still mobile, aren’t showing signs of cognitive issues, and can maintain their self-care and home care routines without assistance.
Qualities of Life to Maintain While Aging in Place
Maintaining a sense of normalcy is why many seniors prefer the idea of aging in place to moving into an assisted living facility in St. Petersburg, Florida. However, aging in place can become problematic or unsafe if specific quality of life markers aren’t upheld.
There are a few quality of life focus areas that should be prioritized in seniors, whether they’re living at home or transitioning to an assisted living facility.
Good Health and Mobility
Seniors can still age in place even if they aren’t in perfect health, but the ability to care for themselves is an important part of remaining at home (unless an in-home caregiver is present). This includes self-administering medications, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in regular physical activity to support muscle retention.
A Sense of Community
No matter where seniors choose to live, it’s important to make sure that they maintain a sense of community with as many friends and family members as possible. Isolation can cause certain health and cognitive issues to worsen, not to mention the fact that a lack of social interaction reduces the quality of life.
Seniors are at greater risk of serious injury if they don’t have family members or friends to call for support when they need it. Additionally, loved ones can help to support healthy habits like self-care and exercise by making them a shared activity to enjoy together.
Access to Healthcare and Support
Seniors can continue to age from home as long as they have the proper healthcare access. This means the ability to travel to and from the doctor or pharmacy and the ability to keep up with healthcare practices at home. For many seniors, a live-in or part-time caregiver is needed to transport them to healthcare facilities or help with everyday tasks.
When to Make the Transition to an Assisted Living Facility in St. Petersburg, Florida
Though aging in place can be a great lifestyle choice for many older folks, some will reach a point when it’s time to research skilled nursing facilities in St. Petersburg, Florida.
If your loved one’s quality of life has declined or you feel they may be a danger to themselves while living at home, an assisted facility might be the best option. Additionally, if your loved one has a live-in caregiver but lacks community, transitioning to assisted living could give them the social stimulation they need to stay healthy and alert.
