Did you know… According to AARP, 90% of seniors want to stay in their own homes as they age?
As much as you worry whether they are safe to live home alone, it may actually be the best place for them to age. Take a look at 8 reasons why keeping them at home is beneficial:
1. Familiarity: As you may be aware, the older we get, the more we resist change! Home is a safe, familiar place, so the idea of living in the comfort of your own home remains true. Consistency and familiarity are both key to ensuring happiness for our parents.
2. Fear of the Future: Our parents’ realization that they are getting older and the uncertainty of the future can create anxiety and uneasiness for them. Creating security and certainty of living arrangements can reduce levels of overall fear and can instill confidence in your loved one.
3. Increased Resources: In today’s world, there are so many more in-home resources available to us. From telemedicine, virtual consultations, medication delivery options, same day food delivery options, housekeeping services, mobile dialysis and in-home physician services, receiving care at home has never been easier!
4. Less Tension: When the parent-child relationship is reversed, this can lead to family tension and a change the family dynamic. Allowing your parents to stay in their own home can give them a sense of control and reduce stress that is involved in the decision-making process.
5. Finances: According to AARP, the average cost of a nursing home or assisted living facility can be at least $50,000 per year, while living at home can be much less. Making a budget and weighing the costs is important here.
6. Loss of Independence: Keeping your parents at home reinforces their sense of independence. If you move your parent to an assisted living or nursing home type facility, often they can feel as if their independence is gone. Creating a feeling of independence is critical for self-confidence and well-being during the aging process.
7. Abuse/ Neglect: Unfortunately, there are increasing numbers of reported abuse and neglect cases in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Do your research, and protect your parents from becoming a victim. Make sure they are in a safe environment as they age.
8. Keep them happy: In their final years of life, support your parents’ decision to age in the comfort of their home. Give them the support that they need so that they can remain safely at home.
The truth is that most seniors prefer home-based care over institutionalized settings like nursing homes or assisted living facilities. This preference is driven by a desire for independence, familiarity, and personalized care tailored to their individual needs and preferences. With the right support, your parents CAN age in place in the comfort of their own homes.
At Silver Lantern Homecare, our mission is to provide safe caregiver services that allow our senior loved ones to live independently in the comfort of their own homes. We ensure that our clients are cared for with compassion and dignity, while promoting independence and quality of life at home. If you’d like to know more about our in-home caregiver services, give us a call at (281) 205-1010.
www.SilverLanternHomecare.com