Many senior adults find themselves at a crossroads at one point or another; should they remain at home and age in place or transition to a senior living community? While aging in place allows the safety and comfort of your own home and community, not all homes can support it. The decision can be made to move into another residence, make renovations to your current residence or choose a senior living community that will support your needs.
Use the following guide to help you determine which option will be best for your unique needs.
The Challenges of Aging in Place
Maintaining independence can prove to be increasingly challenging as we grow older. A certain level of self-sufficiency is required in order to be able to safely remain at home and many senior adults find themselves requiring a helping hand with daily tasks.
For some older adults who live alone, aging in place can actually be detrimental to their health and can cause social isolation and feelings of loneliness. If help or transportation options aren’t available, there can be an increase in depression or risks to physical or cognitive health.
Eskaton is passionate about meeting the needs of senior adults as they are now, and pivoting to continue meeting those needs as they change over time. Our personalized approach allows residents to continue living a flourishing lifestyle and enjoy life to the fullest.
Download our complimentary resource, Just the Facts: Your Guide to Assisted Living.
Questions to Ask Yourself
Seniors who want to age in place in their current home may encounter some challenges. Ask yourself the questions below to determine if remaining in your current home may be a possibility:
- Will your home require extensive renovations?
- Is your home located in a rural or isolated area?
- Do you feel safe in your neighborhood?
- Are there family or friends nearby?
- Do you have access to outside services?
- Are you still driving? If not, do you have easy access to other transportation?
- Do you live alone? If so, is social isolation a concern?
- Are you living with one or more chronic conditions that require assistance?
Advantages of Aging in Place in a Senior Living Community
Aging in place can occur anywhere you call home. Senior living communities are becoming increasingly popular for those seeking ease and comfort in a welcoming setting. Use the safety considerations below to make the most informed decision.
Safety Consideration #1: In a senior living community, one of the biggest advantages is the reassurance of knowing someone is available if help is ever needed.
If living alone, are there options for a quick response when assistance is required?
Safety Consideration #2: Senior living communities can provide help with daily tasks like managing medications, cooking, cleaning and bathing safely.
If living alone, are there family members or a home care agency that can provide services when needed?
Safety Consideration #3: You can say goodbye to expensive home renovations if you decide to transition to a senior living community. Each unit is designed to be move-in ready and support aging in place.
If living alone, is your home accessible, safe and age-friendly?
Safety Consideration #4: Individuals who have made the transition to senior living communities actually feel more independent and in charge of their lives because they no longer need to rely on family or friends for everyday tasks or transportation.
If living alone, are there others you can depend on to help out?
Safety Consideration #5: Enjoying a private residence and the convenience of activities, social events, healthy dining, fitness opportunities, transportation and enhanced safety and security features greatly contribute to aging well — and provide the perfect environment to do so.
If living alone, will you have access to activities, nutritious meals, meeting new people and social events, all of which contribute to both your emotional and physical health?
Life at Eskaton Communities
We believe in the magic and purpose within each of our residents and see each day as an opportunity to enhance their lives. In fact, Eskaton is defined as “the dawning of a new day.” We’ve been proudly serving the Sacramento region and Northern California for over 50 years and look forward to many more.
The Eskaton Difference starts with our life-enriching programs and collaborative partnerships. With a national reputation for innovation, we focus on creating communities that provide our residents with everything they need for purposeful and passionate living.
We invite you to visit one of our award-winning communities to witness the magic yourself and learn about some of the amenities we offer, including:
- Private residences
- Delicious and nutritious meals
- Social opportunities to meet and make new friends
- Creative activities and therapies
- Fitness centers and exercise classes
- Housekeeping services
- Transportation services
- 24-hour staffing
- Pet-friendly
- Free Wi-Fi
- And much, much more!
If you’re considering whether senior living could be the best choice for you or a loved one, we’re here to answer any questions that you may have. We also invite you to download some helpful complimentary information, Just the Facts: Your Guide to Assisted Living. To schedule a personalized tour, call us at 1-866-ESKATON (or 1-866-375-2866) or visit eskaton.org.