Aging in Place in Syracuse: What It Really Takes to Stay at Home Safely

For many older adults in Syracuse and the surrounding communities — from Liverpool and Baldwinsville to Manlius, Fayetteville, Camillus, DeWitt, Clay, and the lakeside charm of Skaneateles — home is more than where life happens. It’s where memories are layered into every room. It’s familiar and comforting. It’s where someone can wake up, open their own curtains, make their coffee just the way they like it, and feel a sense of control over their day.

So, when conversations arise about long-term care or possible changes in living situations, the answer from older adults is often steady and heartfelt:
 “I want to stay right here at home.”

The good news is that aging in place is absolutely possible — but it works best when it’s supported intentionally and compassionately. Successful aging at home doesn’t happen by accident. It requires awareness, planning, and the right kind of day-to-day support.

Why Aging in Place Matters

Studies consistently show that remaining in a familiar environment can help maintain emotional well-being and life satisfaction. In fact, 77% of adults over age 50 say they want to stay in their homes long-term, even if their care needs increase (AARP, 2023). Home provides stability and connection — two things that deeply impact wellness.

However, wanting to stay home is one thing. Staying home safely is another. Here in Central NY, winter weather alone can increase fall risks. The CDC reports that 1 in 4 adults over age 65 experiences a fall each year, and falls are one of the leading causes of injury-related hospital visits (CDC, 2024).
 This is often one of the biggest concerns families express — especially when a loved one is living alone.

Add in day-to-day household responsibilities, medication schedules, grocery shopping, meal preparation, appointments, transportation, and the emotional toll of isolation… and the weight of “staying home” can quickly feel heavier than expected.

This is why support matters — not in a way that replaces someone’s independence, but in a way that protects it.

How Touching Hearts at Home Supports Independence

At Touching Hearts at Home of Syracuse, we help older adults continue living at home comfortably, safely, and fully — in a way that reflects their routines, their preferences, and their dignity.

Our care partners are there to offer gentle support with things like:

  • Staying steady and safe while moving around the home

  • Preparing meals that support health and enjoyment

  • Offering reminders for medications and daily routines

  • Providing help with grooming, hygiene, or dressing when needed

  • Keeping the home environment organized and manageable

  • Getting to appointments, errands, and social activities

  • Spending meaningful time together — talking, laughing, sharing stories, being present

 

And one of the most powerful benefits? Connection.

Many older adults experience loneliness or a lack of social engagement when living alone. Having someone to talk with, share interests with, or simply sit alongside can make an extraordinary difference. This isn’t “care” in the traditional sense of the word. This is partnership — supporting a person in continuing to live life on their terms.

A True Syracuse Story 

After a hospital stay, Mary, who lives in Fayetteville, wanted to return home to her garden and her sunroom. Her daughter was nervous about her safety, mobility, and medication schedule. Instead of immediately seeking assisted living, they reached out to us for post-discharge recovery support at home.

With daily visits focused on safety oversight, meal preparation, conversation, gentle mobility support, and medication reminders, Mary slowly regained confidence and rhythm. She is now tending to her plants again, chatting daily with neighbors, and enjoying her home in the way she always hoped she could.

This is what aging in place looks like when it’s supported with intention, respect, and heart.

Local Support Makes a Difference

We also help families connect with community programs such as the Onondaga County Office for Aging and local senior wellness programming. Aging in place works best when there is a team — family, caregivers, community resources, and compassionate professionals working together.

If Your Family Is Considering Support at Home…

We’re here to help you explore what aging in place could look like for your loved one — without pressure, without assumptions, and without judgment. Just a conversation.

Touching Hearts at Home of Syracuse offers complimentary, warm, guided discussions to help families understand options and feel supported in making a plan.

Home is not just where someone lives — it’s where they feel like themselves.
And we are here to help protect that.

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