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As you age, you may wish to remain in your own homes rather than moving to a nursing care facility. This is called ageing-in-place. This care concept is becoming more common as people live longer and healthier lives, while nursing care facilities are unable to cope with the surge of ageing population.
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Ageing-in-place allows individuals to maintain their independence, live in familiar surroundings, and stay connected to their family and community. In this blog, we will explore the concept of ageing-in-place and whether this is the best solution for every elderly people.
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What is Ageing-in-place?
Ageing-in-place is the ability to live in one’s own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level. It is a concept that has gained traction over the recent years, as people are living longer and want to remain in their homes as they age. In a broader term, ageing-in-place is not just for older adults, but also for anyone who wants to maintain their independence and quality of life.
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Benefits of Ageing-in-place
Independence
One of the most significant benefits of ageing-in-place is that it allows individuals to maintain their independence. Living in one’s own home means that they can continue to make their own choices and decisions about their daily lives.Familiarity
Ageing-in-place means that individuals can remain in a familiar environment. This familiarity can be comforting and can help to reduce stress and anxiety for example adapting new environment and people in care facilities.Community
Staying in one’s own home means that they can continue to be a part of their community. This can provide a sense of belonging, purpose, and social connection.Cost-effective
Moving to a care facility can be expensive. Ageing-in-place can be a cost-effective option for individuals who wish to remain in their own homes.Safety
With the help of home modifications, ageing-in-place can be a safe option for individuals. Modifications such as grab bars, wheelchair ramps, and non-slip flooring can help to reduce the risk of falls and other accidents.
Tips for Ageing-in-place
Make modifications
It is essential to make modifications to the home to ensure safety and accessibility. This may include installing grab bars, non-slip flooring, and ramps.Stay connected
It is important to stay connected with your community and not living in social isolation. This may involve joining a senior care center or participating in local community activities.Get help when needed
As you age, you may require assistance with some forms of activities of daily living. It is important to seek help when needed to ensure safety and comfort.Stay active
Staying active is essential to maintain physical and mental wellness. This may include engaging in physical activity, hobbies, and social activities.
Ageing-in-place may not be the best solution.
Ageing-in-place is not necessarily the best solution for everyone, as it depends on each individual’s circumstances, health conditions, and needs. Some people may require more assistance than that in their home, and may benefit from moving to a care facility. Others may live in a home that is not suitable for ageing-in-place, or may prefer to downsize to a more manageable property.
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Ultimately, the best solution will depend on each individual’s unique circumstances and needs. It is important to consider all options, including ageing-in-place, when deciding on the best course of action for ageing individuals. This decision should be made in consultation with healthcare professionals, the care recipient, family members, and other support networks to ensure that the best possible solution is reached in the interest of care recipient.
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Conclusion
Ageing-in-place is a concept that is becoming more popular as people live longer and healthier lives. It allows individuals to maintain their independence, stay connected to their community, live in a familiar environment, and not dependent too much on the care facilities. With the help of modifications and community support, ageing-in-place can be a safe and cost-effective option for many individuals.
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Even though this care concept may help to reduce burdens of nursing care facilities in time to come. To whom who really needs the professional nursing care, may still require to receive care in care facilities; While those healthy elderly people should be given the choice to stay independently or with family members.
