There are many valid reasons why individuals may choose to “age in place” while staying in their own home. “I’m never moving,” some say. “I want to live here forever,” is a sentiment often expressed. The idea of aging in one’s own home has great merit, for sure. But before making the decision to remain in their own home, those considering this option will want to research and prepare for what it entails. And, they will want to put a solid plan in place that will support and protect themselves, their loved ones, and their assets for the best possible long-term outcomes. If you’re among those making plans to age in place, you’ll want to consider the following points.
Points to Consider For “Aging in Place”
Access to Home Care/Personal Care
At some point in the future, you may need assistance with your Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, and grooming. Therefore, when choosing to remain in your own home, it’s essential to have access to and information about trusted home care aides. This also includes care partners who can assist with transportation and healthy meal preperation.
Care Coordination
Having a designated professional to work closely with you, your family, and your physician to have the right services delivered to you, if they are needed, will ease the burden of coordinating care.
Asset Protection
Prepare for life’s uncertainties by putting a financial plan in place. Access to lifetime care plans with comprehensive inflation protection will safeguard you and your assets from the increasing costs of long-term care.
Social Activities and Friends
Having access to planned activities and a network of friends will help you continue to live a vital, active lifestyle.
Access to Outside Care
Access to supportive-living care, such as skilled nursing, may be needed from time to time post-surgery or following a medical emergency.
Emergency Response System
A response system with 24-hour monitoring will provide ease in accessing emergency care—and the peace of mind that comes with it.
Ready to Learn More?
SmartLife VIA Willow Valley is an ideal plan for those who have made the choice to age in the place they call home. The Lifecare coverage protects their assets and assures predictable costs because fees do not increase due to a member’s need for an increased level of care. Access to lifetime care plans with comprehensive inflation protection will safeguard them and their assets from the increasing costs of long-term care.
If additional care is ever needed, SmartLife utilizes its own Lifecare Coordinators who advocate for the program’s members and arrange for home care when needed. Transportation, meals, and assistance with daily chores can be provided during illness and an emergency response system is available to all members.
SmartLife shares the same reputation for excellence as Willow Valley Communities, an award-winning, nationally recognized, premier senior living community with a 35-year history of strong financial stability. SmartLife members have access to many of Willow Valley Communities’ programs and activities, providing a lifestyle focused on health and wellness along with rich social experiences.
For those making the decision to stay in their own home and age in place, it’s wise to prepare for life’s uncertainties and to make plans for the future. More information about how SmartLife VIA Willow Valley can make it easier—and smarter—to remain in one’s own home is available on our Membership Benefits page.
