How to "Age in Place"
Attached please find an article that was received by our office as part of an e-newsletter called "Pathways to Independent Living," which is sent to us from a Rhode Island business out of Warwick called
Senior Helpers. Senior Helpers provide "companion care" to seniors in their own homes. To reach Senior Helpers, contact Chad Neighbors at (401) 825-7200, or by email at cneighbors@seniorhelpers.com.
Prepare to 'Age in Place'
Take Action Today, for Independent Living Tomorrow
When asked what they fear most, senior citizens ranked losing their independence (26%) and moving into a nursing home (13%) higher than fear of death (only 3%), according to a commissioned study, "Aging in Place in America," conducted by independent research company Prince Market Research. An overwhelming majority of seniors want to grow older in their own homes, yet over half are concerned about their ability to do so.
It may or may not become evident over time that you (or your loved ones) need assistance to continue living in your own home. Often, a major event will cause you to recognize such a need. It might be death of a spouse, a stroke, a broken limb from a fall, or concern from a relative or neighbor following a visit during which they recognize things are just not right.
It is important to take steps today to help ensure that you can "age in place" tomorrow. Some of the easiest things that can be done include simply organizing documents and creating reference sheets.
Organize Documents. The following documents should be assembled in one place so they are available when needed:
· Medicare, Social Security, and health insurance cards
· Copy of birth certificate
· Names, phone numbers, and addresses of doctor(s)
· List of health conditions
· List of current medications with contact information for pharmacy and prescribing physician
· Allergies to food or medications
· Will, living will, and powers of attorney
· Copies of insurance policies, including life insurance and long-term care insurance
· Financial information, including contact information for tax preparer or accountant
Create a Laminated Reference Sheet. Create a complete list of emergency telephone numbers and information. Laminate the list and put it in an obvious place so it will be available for Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) or others who may need it. The sheet should contain the following:
· Name, address, telephone number, birth date, social security number, and medical insurance information.
· Primary and specialist physicians' names and contact information.
· A list of medications and dosages.
· Name and phone number of your pharmacy.
· Names and contact information for caregivers, relatives, and close neighbors.
· Whether you have a living will and/or a durable power of attorney that allows another person(s) to make financial and/or medical decisions if you are unable to do so (include contact information).
Develop a Plan for Help. Recognize when you need help and list needs in the following areas:
· Housekeeping-laundry, shopping, and household paperwork.
· Nutrition-meal planning, cooking, and meal delivery
· Health care-nursing, social work, physical and rehabilitative therapy, and medication monitoring
· Personal care-assistance with personal hygiene, medical equipment, dressing, bathing, and exercise
· Other-transportation, companionship, and daily telephone checks
Once you have compiled the list, decide if a friend or family member can assist you or if you need outside help.
Make Your Home Safe(r). According to The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), one in every three seniors fall each year. Falls cause many seniors to lose their independence, requiring a change in living arrangements such as moving to a nursing home or assisted living facility.
Although falls can happen to anybody, anytime, and anyplace, you can prevent many falls by recognizing and correcting common hazards in the home. Senior Helpers has developed a "Home Safety Checklist" that provides tips for fall-proofing each room in the house.
· Use good lighting. Put light switches at the top and bottom of every staircase.
· Use grip bars and install handrails in bathtub and toilet areas.
· Use a bed that is easy to get in to and out of without injury.
· Secure throw rugs and fasten loose area rugs with double-sided tape or slip-resistant backing.
· Clean up spills, dropped food, etc. from floors immediately.
Exercise. Regular, moderate physical activity is very important. Physical activity can reduce pain in joints and muscles and improve mobility and balance. The benefits of exercise help reduce the risk of falling. Talk with your doctor about starting an exercise program that fits your level of ability and meets your needs.
Sources: www.orthoinfo.aaos.org/, www.metlife.com
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