InHealth: Tips for Helping Seniors Stay at Home

by Wendy Brown, Homecare Assistance

Every adult wants to maintain as much independence as possible as they age, allowing them to stay in their own home. As the owner of Homecare Assistance, I partner with families to help seniors stay at home for as long as possible. Whether moving into a new home or preparing an existing home, creating a safe environment should be top priority to maintain health and an active lifestyle. With proper planning and a little luck, seniors can stay at home for life. Below are three tips for preparing to age-in-place.

1. Reduce Fall Risks

Falls are a serious risk for seniors and can be a life changing event. Not only can serious injury occur but falling could mean a one-way trip to a nursing home. Reducing fall risks usually involves simple fixes: remove throw rugs, keep walkways clear, install grab bars, and replace steps with ramps. If pets are present, put bells on their collar to avoid them silently getting under foot.

2. Prepare for Emergencies

When a senior is at home alone, it is important to make sure they can summon help. Small incidents can become serious and even life threatening. Alert buttons are a popular and affordable option. These devices now come in many discreet styles. Preparing for emergencies should also include advance directives so healthcare professionals are clear on how to respond to emergencies.

3. Build a Team

Accepting help is part of accomplishing the goal to stay at home. When seniors surround themselves with a ‘team’ of people who care, they stand a better chance of maintaining independence. A good team consists of family, friends, doctors, and in-home care. At Homecare Assistance, we provide many important services that help seniors stay at home and provide families with peace of mind.

4. Diet and Exercise

Maintaining health and strength is vital to maintaining independence. Developing an enjoyable diet and exercise plan should be done with the help of a doctor and/or registered dietitian and can be a fun process. When the weather permits, walking is a great way to exercise. Of course, in Florida, it can be too hot for outdoor activities. Stretching and balance exercises are good indoor substitutes.

Staying at home is not only the preference of most adults who are planning for the aging process, it will soon become a necessity. There will be a tide of baby boomers who need care which does not bode well for the quality or affordability of options like independent and assisted living facilities. Planning early and taking steps to stay safe are the keys to staying at home as long as possible.

For those concerned about a loved one at home, where proper planning was not made in advance, it is important to discuss with a doctor or trusted professional how to create a healthy and safe environment. In many cases, it is not too late to make changes and keep seniors in their home. Having an honest conversation about a senior’s independence level can be difficult, but it can also save their life. 

Wendy Brown, Owner
Homecare Assistance
1226 N. Tamiami Trail Suite #301,
Sarasota, FL 34236
941-702-5525
HomeCareAssistanceManasota.com