The Freedom and Flexibility of Aging In Place

Many different people and organizations have different perspectives on aging in place. Generally, we use the term to refer to older adults who stay in their own home as they grow older. Indeed, studies have repeatedly shown that the vast majority of older adults would prefer to live at home as they age, for both sentimental and practical reasons.

Often, seniors find it easier to age in place with the support of a professional caregiver or senior companion. Available on a full- or part-time basis, a senior companion can help provide older adults with the everyday help it takes to thrive in the comfort and safety of home — socially, emotionally, and physically. A professional companion, also known as a caregiver, can spend quality time with the senior, while also offering driving services; assistance with meal prep; and help with activities of daily living (ADLs), like bathing, grooming, and dressing.

Now, because “aging in place” is such a broad phrase, we thought it might also be beneficial to also note a few different ways of looking at it. Here’s how the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) describes “aging in place:” 

“The ability to live in one’s own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level.”

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) describes the concept simply as “staying in your own home as you get older,” while the resource AgeInPlace.com puts it this way: 

“Aging in place is a term used to describe a person living in the residence of their choice, for as long as they are able, as they age. This includes being able to have any services (or other support) they might need over time as their needs change.” 

Notice any key terms that seem to jump out? When talking about aging in place, ideas like “choice,” “independence,” and “service” come up again and again. To that list we might add some more key phrases: “freedom” and “flexibility.” 

Aging in place comes with a number of proven benefits for older adults. Above all, it’s a meaningful way for seniors to enjoy life openly and independently, knowing that they have the freedom to make their own choices — and the flexibility that comes with the support of friends, family, and trusted companions. 

In our experience, aging in place with the assistance of an experienced senior companion can give the elderly the freedom and flexibility to:  

Live More Independently

Aging in place can empower older adults to remain independent and self-sufficient. Living at home in a familiar, comfortable, and safe space can allow seniors to stay active, keep up with their housekeeping, and make the most of their time at home — especially if they are assisted by a knowledgeable caregiver, who can help provide the senior with support while encouraging them to remain independent. Over time, this can give seniors a meaningful sense of purpose, which has been shown to promote healthier habits while also increasing happiness, fulfillment, and personal satisfaction.

Explore and Create New Memories

When living in an institutional care facility, it’s easy to feel limited or stuck in place. Aging at home, however, can provide seniors with the flexibility to explore the world on their terms. Living at home often makes it much easier and more convenient for older adults to see friends and family when they wish. With flexible, dependable driving services, seniors can also schedule errands, or even go on outings and adventures with an enthusiastic and supportive companion by their side. 

Become a Part of Their Community

Staying social is one of the keys to long-term health and longevity, for people of all ages. For seniors, remaining socially active has been shown to help lower rates of depression and anxiety, improve heart health, and lessen chronic pain, among so many other positive health benefits.  In addition to the social support provided by their family members and their friendly companions, seniors who age in place are often able to enjoy being a part of their community in an enriching new way. Aging in place can allow seniors the freedom to volunteer in their community, stay active in their church or temple, sign up for classes, keep in touch with their neighbors, or meet new people in their neighborhood.

Embrace The Lifestyle They Choose

Whether they’ve lived in their current space for five years or five decades, your senior loved one has probably put a lot of work into making their house feel more like a home. Older adults who remain in place can continue to enjoy the lifestyle they’ve gotten used to, rather than having to adapt to a new place, perhaps full of new routines to learn or systems to understand. Aging in place can allow older adults to enjoy the lifestyle that they find enriching, whether that means filling their fridge with their favorite foods, listening to their favorite records, doing their favorite exercises, or finding the hobbies and activities that make them happiest.

Save Time, Energy, and Money for What Matters Most

Compared to the rigid entrance requirements and steep fees of institutional treatment, it is often much easier and more affordable to help the senior in your life continue by aging in place. With companion care, you and your loved one can choose a service provider, set a flexible schedule that suits your needs, and make changes to your loved one’s care plan over time. Broadly speaking, home care services are also typically less expensive than assisted living facility prices, which often cost thousands of dollars per month – before transportation, medical treatments, and other costs associated with aging are even factored in. 

Companions for Seniors Is Here to Help

Do you have a loved one who wants to age in place, who could also benefit from the companionship and support of a trained professional caregiver?

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with Companions for Seniors to continue the conversation. We’re a home care company locally owned in the Chicago area, with clients in the city and suburbs.

At Companions for Seniors, we provide companionship for seniors in the comfort and security of their own homes. Through our support and friendship, we empower the elderly to lead an active and enriched lifestyle, connecting them with their community and nurturing meaningful relationships.

Companions for Seniors provides a free in-home assessment of your current situation, and in most cases we can be up and running in just a few days. We understand that every situation is unique, so we provide a personalized care plan that’s modified to meet each client’s specific needs. As a client’s situation changes, so does our plan of care. 

From one hour to 24 hours a day, we can be there for your loved one, making aging in place easier, safer, and more enjoyable. Have any more questions? Want to get in touch? Please don’t hesitate to get in touch today using our online contact form, available here, or give us a call at 866-910-9020.