Utah is the state for the young and old ones. It has one of the fastest growth rates for men and women 65 years old and above. From 2010 to 2020, this demographic could grow to 51%. Those who are least 75 years old would make up 60% of the population from 2020 to 2030. Many of them will consider aging in place.
Why Many Seniors Hope to Age in Place
Aging in place means growing old in their homes. They can move, but they might remain within their locality or, broadly, the state. What makes this practice attractive to senior adults? Here are some of the reasons:
They Can Maintain Their Independence
It’s instinct for a person to value their freedom to make their decisions and not to rely on other people for help. This doesn’t disappear with age.
One of the primary benefits of aging in place is a sense of control and independence. Senior adults can navigate better any familiar territory. In case they need help once in a while, they know who to trust.
Seniors these days won’t also have a lot of problems making their homes more age-friendly. They can purchase medical equipment in Orem that can improve their navigation and enhance their safety.
It Can Be Less Costly
Costs of care, especially when a person is older, can increase. Long-term nursing facilities can reach almost $7,000 a month for a semi-private unit. A one-bedroom assisted living center may be cheaper at around $3,500 a month, according to the US Department of Health and Human Services. For seniors, though, who may have to be dependent on pension now, it can still break the bank. Aging in place allows them to maximize their homes, which, around this time, is already mortgage free.
It Can Be Healthy for Them Mentally
Depression can occur at any age, but for seniors, it can be more dangerous for a couple of reasons.
One, it may be easy to misdiagnose the symptoms as another disease. Second, the condition may happen alongside other diseases such as diabetes or cardiovascular disorders.
According to Mental Health America (MHA), about 34 million older adults will experience some form of depression. It is also a significant risk factor for suicide among the group.
Treating geriatric depression isn’t straightforward. It might require reducing or eliminating the root cause, which can be another disease. Being less isolated, however, may help reduce the symptoms.
A 2010 study by the Nordic School of Public Health showed social activities could be useful in preventing the mental disorder among seniors. Being surrounded by the people they grow old with can also help boost their self-esteem, and it may improve their overall mental well-being.
A Concordia University research in 2014 revealed an inverse relationship between rising cortisol levels, which is an indication of stress, and lowered self-esteem. The link was stronger among those who had a history of depression and anxiety.
Aging in place is not for everyone. Those who have severe mental or physical problems may need to be in a facility or with their relatives and family members. It also does have its unique challenges. In most cases, though, the benefits outweigh them.