Aging in Community: Tips for Seniors

Guest article written by Karen Weeks from www.elderwellness.net

Aging in community is a popular way for seniors to focus on their health by staying active and social, but what exactly is it?

The definition can vary from person to person, but generally it simply means living at home or in a senior community that isn’t assisted by nurses or other caregivers. For many seniors, this is a big deal, as it means that they can continue to make decisions for themselves and live life on their own terms.

“As a matter of fact, a growing number of baby boomers are turning to shared living as an aging in place housing option. A 2014 AARP analysis of census data found approximately 132,000 households and 490,000 women over the age of 50 living with non-romantic peers,” explains Home Advisor. This type of living situation can be highly valuable for many seniors when it comes to staying active and social, which can have many benefits for both physical and mental health. Of course, aging in place can be a benefit, as well, as it can help a senior stay independent and can boost self-esteem. The key to aging in place is to ensure that the home is safe to prevent falls and other injuries, and to allow for easy living for years to come.

Keep reading for tips on how living in a senior community or at home can be beneficial.

Save Money

Community living means something different for everyone, but in many cases, it involves two or more seniors living together and sharing expenses. This can help you save money over a period of time, giving you a nice nest egg to spend however you want after retirement. You might travel or put funds away for future needs; think about the best ways to utilize the money you’ll save.

Make Your Home Safe

Aging in place means looking for ways to make your home as safe as possible. Think of how you can help prevent falls and other injuries, such as adding non-slip mats to the shower and bathroom floor, decluttering, adding lighting to prevent falls, or installing a ramp over the front steps. Making your home more mobile-friendly can help reduce the risk of injury and will allow you to take care of your home without any problems.

Stay Social

One of the major benefits of living in a community space is that it allows you to stay social, which can be huge for your self-esteem and mental health. Many community living spaces have gatherings, groups, and clubs that will allow you to meet new people and make new connections, a great way to keep isolation at bay, which can reduce the risk of depression, stress, and anxiety.

Stay Sharp

Maintaining a particular lifestyle and keeping up with social connections can help you stay mentally agile and can even improve your memory. Staying active can also help you physically, lowering your chances of health issues by lowering your blood pressure and keeping you more physically fit. Simply having someone to talk to and rely on when you need help or comfort can do wonders for your overall well-being.

 Aging in community is a huge benefit for many seniors, but it’s important to do some research to figure out the best move for your current and future needs. This includes starting with a budget and ensuring that your roommate will be a good fit. With a good plan, you can live your life the way you want without worrying about your physical safety, finances, or mental health.