3 Advantages and Disadvantages of Aging in Place
According to the AARP, nearly 80% of older adults prefer to age in place, but there are advantages and disadvantages of aging in place that should be considered before you make a decision. For most seniors, their instinct is a desire to stay in their current home - the environment they are familiar with - but they may discover that the benefits of moving to a smaller home, or an option that offers more community, outweigh the uncertainties of making a shift.
In the process of guiding hundreds of seniors through housing decisions over the years, I have seen that each situation is both unique and dynamic. Some elderly individuals were thriving in their homes with minor modifications until a life-changing event altered their circumstances. Others were isolated in their homes and struggling due to a lack of support.
These situations are reminders that while aging in place is generally the preferred option, it is not always optimal. There are advantages and disadvantages of aging in place; these will also change based on shifting life needs, so it is worth revisiting the discussion as your situation evolves. In this article, we will look at the advantages and disadvantages of aging in place, and consider when aging in place is a poor fit. Our goal is to develop the knowledge we need to make informed, thoughtful life decisions based on the advantages and disadvantages of aging in place.
3 Advantages and Disadvantages of Aging in Place
Advantage of Aging in Place #1
Familiarity and comfort are compelling reasons to age in place. A senior may cherish memories that exist in the family home, or value their connection with the local community. Change can also be difficult; while many individuals adapt well to a new setting, others do not. As you consider the advantages and disadvantages of aging in place, it is important to think about the senior’s personality, and how that might affect their adjustment to a new living situation.
Advantage of Aging in Place #2
Aging in place allows a senior to maintain more control of their day-to-day life. This sense of autonomy can have enormous benefits on happiness and quality of life. As many seniors lose the ability to handle their personal needs, maintaining a sense of control regarding their home can be important. This is particularly true for seniors with chronic health conditions; however, a senior also has to maintain a certain level of physical and cognitive health to remain independent.
Advantage of Aging in Place #3
Full-service Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Nursing Homes are expensive. Aging in place has its own costs, but unless you need significant home modifications, it may be the cheaper option. This is important to note, as governmental support for care residences is limited. For instance, Medicare will not pay for a Care Community, beyond limited, medically necessary stays in a Skilled Nursing Facility.
It is important to consider whether your home and community are good candidates for aging in place, as not all houses are good fits. However, if your residence is a good fit, staying home can be far more budget-friendly than moving to a Care Community.
Disadvantage of Aging in Place #1
It can become difficult for seniors to maintain their homes as they age. Chores and repairs may become challenging or unsafe, or just something we no longer want to do!
One option is to hire outside service providers. Services from lawn care to prescription delivery are available in most populated areas. This makes it easier to age in place, though cost is an important consideration. These services often work through smartphone apps; if a senior is uncomfortable with technology, a trusted friend can help them get deliveries and services set up.
Disadvantage of Aging in Place #2
Aging in place becomes more difficult if a senior suffers a physical or cognitive decline. If an individual can no longer perform the basic tasks required to maintain the home or their personal care, aging in place may not be an option. Extensive modifications or in-home caregivers may become necessary. Such costs will likely make aging in place cost-prohibitive.
Disadvantage of Aging in Place #3
It is also important to consider the potential for loneliness or isolation for seniors who age in place. This applies to individuals as well as couples; in either case, if there is no way to get out and engage with the world, difficulties can arise. Friends and family can alleviate the situation, but without them, isolation is a risk. If a neighborhood has declined over the years, it can exacerbate the situation; seniors with security concerns about their community will be less inclined to seek out connections.
Most seniors are opposed to the idea of changing their living situation, but it is important to consider both the advantages and disadvantages of aging in place. The idea of change can be uncomfortable, but if aging in place becomes challenging, it probably makes sense to consider alternative options.
When is Aging in Place a Poor Fit?
Not all homes are safe for older seniors to age in place. This is especially true when for the elderly with declining vision or mobility. The design of the house can also be problematic; it can become dangerous to navigate homes with stairways or difficult exterior access. Narrow halls and cramped bathrooms can also become problematic for aging individuals.
There are many home modification options, but some houses are not well-suited to change. In some cases, the cost of the modifications makes the project impossible; this is especially true with older, multi-level residences.
Poor physical health can make aging in place difficult. This is especially true if an individual lives alone. Seniors who suffer physical or cognitive decline may have difficulties with day-to-day tasks. Whether those are personal care or home maintenance tasks, seniors who are unable to care for themselves will be forced to rely on others. Family and friends may be able to help, but caregivers can become overwhelmed as needs build. In-home paid services can provide much-needed support but will increase the cost of aging in place.
At a certain point, support needs may become too much; for instance, severe cognitive impairments make aging in place dangerous. A person with advanced Alzheimer's or other dementia requires round-the-clock care and oversight; a spouse or other caregiver in the home may be able to fill this role, but it can be an enormous burden.
A lack of family, close friends, and community also create challenges for aging in place. This is especially true for seniors with physical limitations who are unable to engage with the community. Social isolation and loneliness have significant adverse impacts on older people's physical health and mental well-being, which makes it important to consider social factors when deciding whether aging in place is right for you.
The Bottom Line
Aging in Place works best for individuals who do their research, consider both the advantages and disadvantages of aging in place, and plan ahead. To maximize the odds of aging in place successfully, individuals should protect their physical and cognitive health, make needed home modifications, and maintain a supportive network of family and friends.
It is also important to remain flexible as you consider the advantages and disadvantages of aging in place. Even with optimal habits, age-related physical or cognitive changes will occur. Unanticipated life events can happen, and a new plan may be needed. If life demands a new plan, remaining open to unfamiliar options may help you find the best solution; our article on Popular Living Solutions for Seniors can give you a great idea of what alternatives might fit your needs!