But there are myths about aging in place that can make family members wary of their senior continuing to live at home alone. Family caregivers may worry that their senior parent could fall at home and get hurt, or that they won’t be able to maintain the home as they get older. Home care helps seniors age in place safely.
If you have a senior parent that wants to age in place and live independently, think about these common myths about seniors living at home and you may change your mind:
One prevalent myth is that seniors are not adept at using technology. In reality, many older adults are embracing smartphones, tablets, and other devices to stay connected with loved ones, access information, and engage in various activities. Using technology helps seniors age in place safely and it can help you stay connected with your senior parent.
Contrary to the belief that all seniors prefer assisted living facilities, studies show that almost 90% of seniors have a strong desire to age in place and live independently at home. With the right support, modifications, and services, seniors can maintain their independence while enjoying the familiarity and comfort of their own homes.
While social isolation is a concern for some seniors, the myth that all older adults living at home are socially isolated is inaccurate. Seniors living at home have friends and neighbors nearby, and with 24-hour home care or daily home care visits they have plenty of social connections.
There’s a misconception that aging inevitably leads to helplessness. In reality, seniors can maintain a high level of independence with appropriate support. Access to home modifications, assistive devices, and supportive services enables older adults to navigate daily activities and challenges more effectively. With home care to help seniors do tasks that are too much for them like carrying laundry or mopping floors or carrying grocery bags seniors can live quite well at home.
Some people believe that seniors resist assistance or are unwilling to accept help. In reality, many older adults appreciate and welcome support that enables them to maintain their independence. As long as seniors get the opportunity to keep doing as much as they can when it comes to things like housework or shopping or driving they often are very open to getting some support.
Just because your senior parent may not want to move to an assisted living facility doesn’t mean they don’t want help. Talk to your senior parent about home care and you may be surprised at how open they are to having professional support. Especially if it means they can stay in their homes.
References
https://www.ncoa.org/adviser/medical-alert-systems/home-safety-older-adults/
If you or an aging loved one is considering home care in Park Slope, NY, please contact the caring staff at Touching Hearts at Home – Manhattan, Brooklyn, Westchester, Queens, Rockland today. 646-480-6266
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