While many of us may dream of retiring and moving away to a
beach-side resort or cabin by the lake, the reality is that most Americans look
forward to remaining in their own homes so they can continue to enjoy familiar
comforts, activities and loved ones. In fact, an AARP survey recently found
that 87 percent of U.S. adults 65 and older and 71 percent of those 50 to 64
wish to stay in their current houses as they get older.
Fortunately, it's becoming easier for seniors to maintain their
independence and stay at home longer thanks to the increasing range of services
offered to this fast-growing market. This is great news, considering that by
2035, one in three American households are expected to be led by someone 65 or
older.
Unlike previous generations often forced to leave their homes due
to keeping up with home maintenance, personal care and healthcare needs,
businesses today offer solutions to these challenges and more.
If you're an aging adult or have parents or other loved ones who
are getting older, here are some important services and options that can make
aging in place easier.
— Universal design: Making your home
more easily navigable will make a huge difference should mobility become an
issue. Modifications such as ramped or no-step entrances, wider halls and
doorways, lowered electrical controls, lever-style handles, and adapted tubs
and showers can be planned over time to help with budgeting.
— Housecleaning services: Hiring a professional
company to take care of routine housework can take away a huge burden, freeing
you up for more enjoyable activities while ensuring your home stays clean, tidy,
and welcoming to friends and family.
— Emergency alert services: Think about signing up
for a personal emergency response system that can immediately call for medical
or police assistance at the push of an (often wearable) button. Many now offer
GPS tracking, activity monitoring, fitness tracking, fire and carbon monoxide
detection and other advanced features.
— Transportation services: If you're nearing the
point at which you're unable to drive, you may wish to research other ways of
getting you where you want to go. Depending on your budget, your options might include
a service such as Uber, a private car service, a dial-a-ride service,
traditional public transportation or paratransit.
— Grocery delivery: Fortunately, many grocers are
now competing to remain relevant in their industry by offering low-cost
delivery services. That pays off for seniors who want to choose their own foods
but find shopping or travel physically challenging. Many services even allow
you to pick out specific cuts of meat or pieces of produce online.
Thanks to the buying power of baby boomers, businesses will
continue to step up to the plate with new products and services to serve their
needs. If you're part of that generation, don't hesitate to take advantage of
the latest offerings aimed at making your at-home life easier and more comfortable.