Learn about the resources and modifications that can help you safely and comfortably age in place.
Aging at home offers seniors the comfort of familiar surroundings while maintaining independence. However, it requires thoughtful planning and the right resources to ensure safety and comfort. Here’s a guide on how to make aging at home work for you, including resources and modifications to consider.
Home Modifications
Modifying your home can significantly enhance safety and accessibility, making it easier to navigate daily tasks.
Bathroom Safety: To prevent falls, install grab bars in the shower and near the toilet, use a shower chair, and consider a walk-in bathtub.
Kitchen Accessibility: Arrange frequently used items within easy reach, install pull-out shelves, and use appliances with easy-to-read controls.
Mobility Enhancements: Ensure floors are free of tripping hazards, install ramps for wheelchair access, and use stair lifts if necessary.
Local Resource:
Home HealthSmith: Specializes in home modifications to improve safety and accessibility for seniors. Learn more
In-Home Care Services
In-home care services provide assistance with daily activities, ensuring that you can live independently while receiving the support you need.
Personal Care: Assistance with bathing, dressing, and grooming.
Household Assistance: Help with meal preparation, housekeeping, and laundry.
Health Care: Medication management, wound care, and monitoring of health conditions.
Local Resource:
Care at Home LLC: Provides personal care and support services to seniors in their homes. Learn more
Visiting Angels - Groton, Norwich: Offers in-home care services to help seniors live independently. Learn more
Technology Solutions
Technology can play a crucial role in enhancing safety and connectivity for seniors aging at home. Don't think you can afford it. You could be eligible for a free medical alert system, which largely depends on your financial situation and insurance coverage. So, don't count this out.
Medical Alert Systems: Wearable devices that allow you to call for help in an emergency. These wearables are connected to a medical alert system. Learn More
Smartwatches: Offering more than fitness tracking, but fall detection and several health metrics. If you can't call yourself, a smartwatch from Apple or Google has fall detection. This has to be turned on: How do I turn on fall detection on my smartwatch?
Smart Home Devices: Voice-activated assistants, smart lighting, and automated thermostats can make daily tasks easier.
Telehealth Services: Virtual consultations with healthcare providers for convenient medical care from home.
Here are two articles to help decide what's right for you: Consumer Reports, Is a Smartwatch As Good As a Medical Alert System? National Council on Aging, Should You Use Apple Watch for Fall Detection in 2024? Experts Weigh In
Community Support Services
Local community services can provide additional support and social interaction, helping you stay connected and engaged.
Senior Centers: Offer a range of activities, social events, and educational programs.
Transportation Services: Provide rides to medical appointments, grocery stores, and social events.
Meal Delivery Programs: Ensure that you have access to nutritious meals without the need to cook.
Local Resource:
Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center: Offers services, programs, and activities to support seniors and the community. Learn more
Thrive55+ Active Living Center: Promoting independent living for older adults, offering transportation and diverse programs in health, fitness, and arts, along with special events and daily meals, supporting both physical and mental well-being. Learn More
Groton Library: Provides books, media, and programs to support lifelong learning. Learn more
Health and Wellness Services
Maintaining your health is vital for aging in place successfully. Utilize local health and wellness services to stay active and healthy.
Physical Therapy: Helps improve mobility and manage pain.
Fitness Classes: Tailored exercise programs for seniors to stay fit and active.
Nutritional Counseling: Provides guidance on maintaining a balanced diet.
Local Resource:
Inspire Mobile Therapy Group: Delivers personalized physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy services to help seniors regain strength and function right at home. Learn more
Caramia Wellness: Provides personalized wellness programs focusing on nutrition and holistic health. Learn more
Financial Assistance
Navigating the financial aspects of aging at home can be challenging. There are resources available to help cover the costs of modifications and in-home care services.
Medicaid: Provides assistance for in-home care services for eligible seniors.
Veterans Benefits: Veterans may qualify for Aid and Attendance benefits to help cover home care costs.
State Programs: Various state programs offer financial assistance for home modifications and in-home care services.
Local Resource:
Connecticut Veterans Legal Center: Provides free legal assistance to help veterans overcome legal barriers to housing, healthcare, income, and recovery. Learn more
Connecticut Department of Social Services: For detailed information and to apply for Medicaid. Learn more
Aging at home requires careful planning and the right resources to ensure safety, comfort, and independence.
By making necessary home modifications, utilizing in-home care services, embracing technology, seeking community support, maintaining health and wellness, and exploring financial assistance options, you can create a living environment that supports your needs as you age gracefully in the comfort of your own home.
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