It is crucial to know the signs that your parents need help at home.

by: Nicci Kobritz, R.N., Founder, Youthful Aging Home Care

Today, ninety percent over the age of sixty-five want to age-in-place, yet few know how to take the necessary steps. For individuals entering the time of life when long-term support becomes increasingly important, the goal is to facilitate greater independence at home. Many individuals have multiple chronic conditions and complex health needs preventing success. A Guided Care nurse and coach can design a program to address existing health issues and set a course for helping to prevent the many challenges that develop with aging.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has stated that: The first step is to find a health Guide who becomes the “nurse in the family” functioning in partnership with your primary physician to reduce preventable adverse health events while coaching you in lifestyle interventions such as nutrition; physical activity; sleep hygiene; stress reduction and opportunities for socialization. proving cognitive function and brain health becomes important.

To remain at home, access to basic support services may be necessary. Meal preparation, handyman, personal assistant, caregivers, home modifications to name a few…..all customized to your needs and readily accessible.

Service providers who are bonded, insured, and can produce references. Finally, installing the latest in-home monitoring devices and telehealth to pick up early on potential health events twenty-four hours a day in real time. Such devices, for example, allow providers to monitor patient progress remotely and receive alerts if there is an issue in real time. The emergence of new technologies and capabilities are making aging-in place possible for many people while also reducing the need for caregiver support.

Successful aging-in-place strategies require a plan to meet the immediate needs while adapting with you as you age-in-place.