Three Advantages – and One Risk – of Aging in Place

October 1, 2024

The overwhelming majority of Americans prefer to enjoy retirement “aging in place,” continuing to live independently in their homes and communities. In fact, 80% of Americans aged 50 and older say they want to remain in their own homes.

Aging in place has many advantages, but understanding and preparing for risks is also important.

Three Advantages of Aging in Place

1. Independence and Empowerment

Nothing beats maintaining control over your schedule. You can come and go as you please, have guests (and privacy) when you want, and enjoy autonomy and freedom. Aging in place is an excellent option for people who wish to maintain a sense of independence and control over their lives. It can also let you enjoy maintaining the same home and community where you raised your family and built many memories.

2. Physical Health Benefits

Aging in place gives superior access to the physical fitness activities you most enjoy, including gyms and exercise classes, golf courses, or local yoga or Pilates studios. The more access to the physical fitness routines you most enjoy –going to the gym, walking outside with friends, or taking classes at local yoga or Pilates studios – the more likely you’ll stick to them and reap their benefits.

3. Mental Health Benefits

Aging in place also has advantages for mental health. Access to familiar and beloved existing social networks and activities, community organizations and clubs, favorite restaurants and hang-out spots, and entertainment like theater or movies is critical for someone to remain engaged and enthusiastic about their daily activities. A recent study concluded that removing an older person from their home and introducing them to new environments and social settings means stripping them of foundational long-term memory stimuli, which can result in confusion, stress, and depression.

One Significant Challenge to Living Independently

For all the advantages of living independently, thinking ahead to possible challenges is crucial. Perhaps the most significant thing is being prepared if you have an accident or medical emergency at or near home and can’t drive yourself to the hospital or if a friend or loved one is unavailable. What if you fall and break your leg? What if you recognize the signs of a heart attack?

An ambulance ride to the emergency room might be necessary in these emergencies. However, most insurance – including Medicare – does not cover the cost of medical emergency transportation. That’s why you need a Medical Air Services Association (MASA) plan from AMBA and your association. Services are paid in full, with no deductibles, co-pays, or dollar limits. MASA covers your ambulance or airlift, regardless of age or medical condition. Learn more at www.AMBAmedtransport.com or call AMBA at 877-290-3170 M-F 8am-6pm CT.

 

Sources: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7205644/

https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_social_connections_keep_seniors_healthy

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9495472/#:~:text=For%20some%2C%20aging%20in%20place,prefer%20to%20age%20in%20place

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