Tips for Aging in Place

Assisted living facilities and senior communities are no longer the only options for seniors as they age. Instead of leaving the home they’ve known for years and are comfortable in, many seniors choose to age in place. There are many advantages to aging in place, and taking the proper steps and precautions can ensure you’re making living the safest and most comfortable option.

Take care of your physical and mental health

The healthier you are, the easier it is to care for yourself. That isn’t to say that if you have a chronic health condition that aging in place is out of the question, but it does mean you have to be vigilant about sticking to your doctor’s appointments, medications, and other health needs. 

• Attend all doctor’s appointments and schedule follow-ups. Going to the doctor can feel tedious, especially if you have weekly or monthly follow-ups. But attending your appointments is essential to maintaining your well-being. 
• Don’t forget to visit dentists, dermatologists, and eye doctors. Sometimes we get caught up with our primary doctor and forget to keep up with our oral, skin, and eye health. Ensure you regularly follow up with all the medical professionals in your life for optimal health. 
• Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. Physical activity improves your cardio health, strengthens muscles, and maintains mobility. Your daily physical activity doesn’t have to be vigorous hour-long workouts. Instead, find something you enjoy, such as brisk walking or swimming, that increases your heart rate and that you can do for at least 30 minutes four days a week. 
• Eat a well-balanced diet. Food fuels your body, and you must fuel yourself with quality food filled with the nutrients your body needs to function. Try to avoid consuming too many processed foods and alcohol. Instead, try to incorporate more lean meats, fresh produce, and whole grains. 

Reduce fall risks in and outside the home

One of the biggest concerns for older adults as they age is falling. More than one in four Americans 65 and older fall each year, many of which can lead to injuries, such as concussions and broken bones. It can also place concern in older adults, causing them to avoid activities for fear of falling again.

While falls are common, they don’t have to be an inevitable part of aging. If you choose to age in place, one of the best things you can do for yourself is reduce your fall risk at home with a few simple modifications. 

• Clear clutter from the doorways and hallways
• Put automatic lights in hallways and your most commonly used rooms
• Install grab bars in your shower and around your toilet
• Make sure your mats and rugs have no-slip grips on the bottom
• Avoid slippers and wear supportive shoes that have a back and snuggly fit on your foot
• Move your most used items in your kitchen and bathroom to a low or easy-to-reach shelf

Ask for help when you need it

Living independently doesn’t mean you can’t ask for help if you need it. If you’re living alone and have trouble with laundry, cooking, or driving, talk to a loved one and ask if they can assist you. Many family members take on the role of family caregiver and are willing to help seniors with daily living tasks. If multiple family members or friends are nearby, schedule a rotating schedule to have someone help you weekly or monthly whenever you’re in need. 

Unfortunately, not everyone has a nearby family member to rely on for assistance. However, that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. One alternative to contacting family and friends is hiring a professional caregiver from a trusted home care agency like Visiting Angels. 

Visiting Angels is a locally owned and operated home care agency that provides affordable nonmedical assistance to seniors. Our primary goal is to help seniors remain independent at home by helping with daily living tasks like light housekeeping, medication reminders, transportation, meal prep, personal grooming, and more. 

Our Manassas office works with seniors throughout Prince William and Western Fairfax counties, including Fort Belvoir and Lorton. You can learn more about how our services can help you age in place by scheduling a complimentary consultation. Call us at 703-530-8811 or message us with any questions.