What Is Aging in Place? How Does It Work?

Whether you’re approaching your golden years or you have a loved one who is, adjusting your home to make it safe is essential for aging in place. But what is aging in place? And, how can you make aging in place a reality for your home? Stay tuned as we review these questions and more to get you started on your project.

What Is Aging in Place?

Aging in place is when you choose to live in your home independently for as long as you can as you age. Many older adults prefer to stay in their homes instead of going to nursing homes or assisted living homes after a certain age. Doing so provides a sense of autonomy to anyone who would rather retain the comfort of their home. If done right it can be a way to extend independent living until long-term care becomes necessary.

How Does Aging in Place Work?

Most homes don’t currently have what it takes for residents 65 and up to age in place. According to the United States Census Bureau, only 10% of housing units are equipped to handle aging populations. The Bureau’s 2019 American Housing Survey report states that approximately 40% of U.S. houses have basic accessibility features. As a result, you'll need to implement careful aging-in-place house plans for success.

There are many elements to consider, so we recommend working with a remodel design company near you to turn your concept into a practical solution for aging in place. Here’s the basic run-down on how to age in place so that you know where to start when you reach out to contractors in your area.

Healthcare

As older populations age in place, they may need personal care services involving health aids who come over to help with daily living. If you or your loved one is unable to do these things independently, find someone in the area to assist with dressing, meal preparation, and personal hygiene. 

Housekeeping

Some seniors require housekeepers to maintain cleanliness in places that are hard to reach. Hiring a cleaning company near you is one way to have the benefits of living in an aging home without moving to a senior facility. Most professional cleaners charge between $25 and $80 per hour, depending on your location.

Mobility

Mobility makes all the difference when it comes to aging in place, which is why installing accessibility features in your home is key to independent living in old age. 

Physical Activity

Aging in place can reduce your physical activity if you're not careful, so aim for a physical lifestyle by creating an exercise plan that keeps you active. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that adults 65 and up receive weekly aerobic, muscle strength training, and balance-based exercises. Aim for a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate activities per week.

Safety

Anyone who decides to age in place should have safety features for quickly reaching emergency services. Ensure you have access to 911 or other medical services at all times, and consider installing security cameras and other home automation measures to alert you and caregivers to any signs of trouble the moment they arise. 

Socializing

Choosing to age at home might be a lonely decision for seniors who don't have a good support system that helps them socialize. Having friends and family nearby to assist can go a long way towards helping you stay in your home for as long as possible. Stay active in your community by attending groups, hobbies, and sports, and keep in touch with your loved ones and neighbors.

Transportation

Driving can become less of a reality as you age, making it important to have transportation alternatives. Programs like Medicare or Medicaid’s non-emergency transportation services and other state, local, and national programs may assist older Americans with local transportation resources.

Accessibility Projects for Aging in Place

Knowing just what to renovate or install in your home will determine how well-prepared you are for aging in place. For instance, even if you’re not in a wheelchair, planning to age in place with this possibility later down the road can better prepare you for all situations. Creating a wheelchair-accessible home is one way to cover all possibilities of limited mobility for aging in place.

With this in mind, here’s an aging-in-place remodeling checklist you can use to achieve better accessibility:

• Walk-in bathtub or shower

• Shower seat or bench

• Wheelchair ramps

• Wheelchair platform lift

• Grab bars

• Comfort height toilets

• Lever door handles

• Slip-resistant flooring

• Smart home automation

• Strategic landscape designs 

• Aging-in-place kitchen design, including lower countertops, cabinets, appliances, and light switches

Pros and Cons of Aging in Place

Aging in place is a big decision that comes with several advantages and disadvantages worth weighing before you decide. Let’s go over the pros and cons to help you decide whether or not aging in place is the right choice. 

Pros 

• It’s familiar

• Less adjustment than moving

• No need for moving assistance

• You don’t have to downsize

• Gives more independence

• May save money long-term 

Cons

• It’s harder to maintain

• It can be isolating

• Increased safety risks

• Requires upfront investments in accessibility upgrades

Cost to Age in Place

The average cost to make a home accessible is $4,400, but it can range anywhere from $700 to $8,100 depending on the level of renovations and features. Some installations, like home elevator costs, run up to $60,000. Consider having an aging-in-place home inspection with a professional home inspector near you to determine what steps you'll need to take to stay within budget.