Home sweet home: Supporting a loved one aging in place

Many older adults prefer to stay in their own homes as they age. This is called “aging in place.” Here are some things to consider so you can help your loved one stay safe, healthy, and comfortable at home.

What your loved one might need support with

• Personal care. Friends, relatives, or a professional aide can support your loved one with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and getting around, even if just for a few hours a day.
• Household tasks. Residential cleaning services and other local services can help with chores like cleaning, shopping, and laundry. Many stores offer delivery services for groceries and prescriptions.
• Meals. These can include community dining programs, meal delivery services, or shared meals with friends.
• Money management. Trusted relatives or financial counselors can help manage bills.
• Health care. In-home services can support various aspects of health care, including medication management, physical therapy, and in-home nursing.
• Getting around. If driving is difficult, there may be local transportation programs and public transit options for seniors.

What you can do

Talk with your loved one about their needs and preferences and what assistance they might need, and work together to create a personalized plan to help your loved one stay safe, comfortable, and independent.

• Learn about services for older adults living at home, and research what programs and resources are available in your loved one’s local community.  
• Assess their home for any potential hazards. Making changes such as installing grab bars or improving lighting throughout the house can help make the home safer and more accessible.
• Involve friends and family in planning and encourage your loved one to reach out to them for support.  
• Learn from others’ experiences of caring for loved ones who are aging in place.

Finding services

To locate services in your loved one’s local area, contact their local Area Agency on Aging or use the Eldercare Locator. This free, nationwide program connects older adults and their families with local, trustworthy support resources for housing, transportation, home care, and more. Get in touch by email, chat, or calling 800-677-1116.

What about the cost?

You may be able to get help paying for repairs and safety updates to an older adult’s home. Check with your state housing finance agency, social services department, community development groups, or the federal government for financial aid programs and discounts. You can also contact the Eldercare Locator for assistance finding resources to help with these changes.