Home Sweet Home: Your Guide to Aging in Place

As the years go by, it becomes increasingly important for many individuals to stay independent and remain in the comfort of their own homes for as long as possible. In fact, 88% of Americans would rather receive any necessary and ongoing assistance or care in their own home or the home of a loved one. Aging in place is a growing trend because it offers numerous benefits, from maintaining your autonomy to staying connected with familiar surroundings and community. 

Aging in place refers to the ability to live at home regardless of age or ability. It involves adjusting your living space and lifestyle to accommodate changing needs as you age. 

North Kansas City Hospital and Meritas Health (NKCH and MH) understand the community’s desire to remain independent while growing older. Our CAPABLE program offers personalized assistance to help you live safely and independently at home. Through home visits, goal-setting and practical solutions, we empower you to take control of your health and well-being.

Knowing where to start can be challenging, but we’ve got you covered with these practical tips and strategies to make your home a safe and supportive environment throughout your golden years.

Key Considerations for Aging in Place

• Home Modifications: Simple changes can make a big difference in safety and accessibility. Consider installing grab bars in the bathroom, improving lighting and removing tripping hazards like loose rugs.
• Health and Wellness: If you want to stay home, stay active. Establish a regular exercise routine, maintain a balanced diet and schedule routine medical checkups to help maintain physical and mental well-being.
• Social Connections: Isolation can be a significant challenge for older adults. Stay connected with friends, family and community groups. These relationships can provide emotional support and reduce loneliness. 
   

Tips to Prevent Falls and Stay Independent as You Age - YouTube
 

Creating a Safe and Comfortable Home Environment

• To successfully live independently at home as you age, it's important to create a living space that meets your evolving needs. Here are some tips to help you get started:
• Assess Your Home: Conduct a thorough assessment of your home to identify potential hazards and areas that need improvement. Consult with a member of the CAPABLE team, such as an occupational therapist, who can provide personalized recommendations.
• Plan for the Future: Think about your long-term needs and how your home can adapt to them. Add ramps, widen doorways and place all essential areas on one level to help you navigate your home safely and comfortably as your needs evolve.
• Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest information and resources, such as government programs like the Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services and community services like KC Shepard’s Center, to help you make informed decisions and take advantage of new technologies and services.
   

Regardless of how you tackle it, the first step towards a safer, more independent future doesn’t have to be daunting with these ideas in mind.
 

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Trevin Lambert

Trevin is the Content Development Coordinator at North Kansas City Hospital. In his position at NKCH, he creates a variety of written materials utilized throughout the hospital and online for both internal and external audiences. He and his wife, Maddie, recently moved to Kansas City with their dog, Indiana Jones, and their cat, Keanu Reeves.