Most people don’t realize the true power of time until finally reaching the half-century mark. And once you reach the age of 50, many things about how you live your life may have finally begun to change.
Our metabolism slows down. We’re not as strong as we used to be. And though you might still feel youthful and exuberant, the mirror might reflect otherwise.
But growing old doesn’t have to be something to worry about or become depressed over. In fact, with a healthy lifestyle, you can live well into your golden years feeling more full with life than you ever had in your youth.
Regardless of how we age, you might want to consider care options for your later years. And believe it or not, there are a variety of care options to choose from.
In the following post, we’ll explore 3 of the basic care options that all retirees should consider.
Aging in Place
Perhaps the most preferred method for living life in your golden years is what is known as aging in place. And all this refers to is staying in your home as you age.
But aging in place should come with a few notes to consider. For instance, if you have trouble getting around, you’re going to need a support network. And though we have options such as taking a cab, using rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft, it’s also good to have friends or family nearby who are willing to help.
On that note, the best way to age in place is to ensure that you’re in an environment where you have support when you need it. And this might include moving into a dwelling closer to family or friends.
At the end of the day, if you’re going to age in place, make sure you have all your bases covered, and you’ve taken the necessary steps to ensure your safety.
Nursing Homes
Perhaps the most dreaded of all is ending up in a nursing home when you’ve lived your entire life full of independence. But unfortunately, some of us don’t age as well as others, and we develop debilitating conditions that may require around-the-clock care.
Nursing homes are for those who need continuous care or for those with friends or family who can’t adequately provide healthcare. And often, those who reside in nursing homes often have serious health conditions which need to be monitored such as Alzheimer’s or Dementia.
It’s also good to note that nursing homes have taken on a negative aspect as well. For example, across the country, there are numerous reports of abuse and neglect in nursing homes. While avenues exist to seek justice for those harmed by third-party care agencies, it’s wise to properly vet any care facility before ever considering becoming a resident.
Assisted Care
Another attractive option for those who need regular medical assistance but would prefer not to live in a nursing home is to enlist the help of assisted care or a personal caregiver for medical needs.
This option is much like aging in place, but assisted care is particularly suited for those who have limited mobility or moderate health conditions that need regular attention.
Often, personal caregivers are friends or family who are in regular contact with doctors and primary healthcare providers. But it’s also common to have a RN or a Hospice nurse come by regularly to ensure that care is provided.
Assisted care is usually the final step before having to be admitted to a nursing home if a health condition becomes serious enough or if an older adult begins to present a danger to him or herself.
It should be noted that not everyone will need to have access to medical care in old age. But for those who suffer from moderate to serious health conditions, considering the options presented above might be the best step forward to living life in your golden years.
