It happens to all of us eventually; we slow down, our health is not what it used to be, and living independently becomes harder.
Many people, as they age, face a difficult choice. Do they stay in their home, or do they move to an Anchorage assisted living senior community where they have more help? Here are some factors to take into consideration.
Cost.
It is often cheaper in the long run to age in place, as long as you have paid off your mortgage and have a decent amount of home equity. In the short term, home modifications can make for a considerable expense, especially if you have to put in a ramp. A home equity loan is often necessary to pay for major modifications. The Department of Housing and Urban Development recommends aging in place as a way to save money for seniors, their families, and Medicaid/Medicare. However, it is not cheaper for everyone.
The house you are in.
One problem common to seniors with declining mobility is increased difficulty using the stairs. It is not uncommon to end up wanting or needing to move to a single story residence. Although stairlifts are helpful they can easily break down at the most inconvenient moment, which can include when you are halfway up or halfway down.
The climate of Alaska.
Older people deal less well with cold winters and if you live in, Alaska, the combination of winter cold and fall risks from snow and ice may make it desirable to move somewhere safer. In some cases, too, doctors may recommend a move to an assisted living community that have fall safety’s in place.
How much help you need.
Aging in place ceases to be cheaper if full-time assistance is needed with medical matters or daily living. A live-in aide can cost $100,000 to $175,000 a year, depending on the area and the expertise needed. It can be much cheaper to move to a community where full-time help is on site, but you are not bearing the full cost. Many assisted living communities have nurses on-site 24/7 and can offer help with nutrition, physical therapy, etc.
Who is doing home maintenance?
Home maintenance can sometimes be a challenge for young, healthy individuals, and can become overwhelming to seniors. Not everyone can rely on younger relatives to have time to do it. In that case, moving to a retirement community can relieve a lot of stress and reduce safety risks caused by maintenance simply not being done.
Where is your support network?
If staying at home keeps you close to a supportive family and friends, it can be a better option than moving out of their reach. Conversely, if your family has scattered to the winds, it might make more sense to move to be closer to them, and often makes more sense to get an apartment over buying another house. Also, your family may or may not be up to giving you all of the support you need, which can lead to resentment and family conflict.
Do you have access to an Anchorage assisted living community?
Some seniors feel isolated in their own homes. Many retirement communities offer group activities and “resort style” living that encourages you to get out, meet your neighbors, and continue with (or start) activities you enjoy.
Would you rather move now or later?
A “life care” or “continuing care” community which has the ability to support you as your health declines can actually result in a better feel of “aging in place” than staying at home until you have to move to a nursing home. If you choose a retirement community that has assisted living facilities on site, then your next move could only be across the street.
Anchorage Assisted Living communities can actually give you more independence. Paradoxically, moving to a good retirement community can improve independence rather than taking it away. Because you are no longer reliant on your family for everything you can feel as if you have a greater ability to make your own choices. Although some communities dictate meal times, others offer a restaurant-style setup where you can choose when you eat and how much, so that you can cook on the days you feel up to it or go out to dinner with the grandchildren without paying twice for your meal.
For some Alaska seniors, aging in place is the answer. For others, moving to a quality Anchorage Assisted Living community is the smart choice, giving greater independence with the knowledge that professional support is there if you need it.
Living at Baxter Senior Living in Anchorage Alaska At Baxter Senior Living, we work to ensure that our community is an extension of your loved ones family. If you are at a place in your life that you need to discuss Anchorage Assisted Living, Anchorage Memory Care, or Anchorage Respite Care please reach out today. We are happy to help answer any questions. Contact a Baxter Senior Living Representative today! 907-865-3500
