A recent AARP study shows that 77% of adults 50 and older want to remain in their homes for the long-term — even as their health declines and it becomes increasingly apparent that they will eventually need some form of assistance from friends and family. Essentially, growing old is not that much of a concern for many of us, provided that we get to do it at home. 

The desire for growing old at home is not surprising. We all have strong feelings about the comfort that home and being close to family provides, and no matter how many quality facilities exist and are made to mimic that environment, there is no place like home.

But is growing old at home possible for your unique situation? Here are a few things to consider:

Personal limitations — These are not only physical limitations but financial, too. While the costs of in-home care can be less than assisted living or a nursing home, it will likely be an out-of-pocket expense since Medicare does not typically pay for home care unless it is medically necessary. On the other hand, Medicaid can cover home-health assistance if you meet certain requirements.

Home limitations — Home really is the best! But for many people, the home they have lived in for decades becomes unlivable if they can no longer navigate it safely. As a result, slight renovations here and there, or only living on the first floor if it is a two-story residence, might need to be considered to make it easier for you to move about uninhibited. If you cannot afford those renovations, or they simply are not feasible, another facility may be a better option in the long run. 

Community support — An argument for assisted living is that residents have access to more social activities and health aid than growing old at home. Fortunately, many businesses have sprung up in recent years to provide many of these services in your home. This includes personal care assistants, help with shopping and cleaning, and even doctors who make home visits. 

Ensuring that you or your aging loved one feels comfortable with their living accommodations is critical to their happiness and ability to live out the rest of their life in peace. For many people, growing old at home is possible. But if that is not possible, the good news is that many home and community-based services are available to provide such care.

As estate planning and elder law attorneys, we pride ourselves on being a resource for individuals and their families who are trying to make sense of the journey that lies ahead and crave options for elderly care. Proper planning provides you with those options.

Call Leigh Hilton PLLC today!!

At Leigh Hilton PLLC, estate planning and elder law is our focus. We try our very best to make the estate planning process as seamless and personable as possible. The first step is always to meet with you. The purpose of the initial meeting is actually to get to know you, your family, and your situation so that we can customize a plan based on your unique family situation. 

Leigh Hilton PLLC wants to be your first call every time for any estate planning need. We look forward to serving you.