July 31, 2017 / Blog / ilcorp

What Does Aging in Place Mean?

The Importance of Having a Plan for Your Future

The average American today is expected to live to the age of 78, which means people are living longer than ever before. These older adults stay engaged in the workforce longer or within their communities, from volunteering and mentoring to spending more time with loved ones.

The term “aging in place” means different things to different people. Often, it’s defined as living out your life in the home you’ve lived in for many years – only receiving in-home assistance from family members or medical professionals as it becomes necessary. While this is an option some seniors prefer, it’s important to consider the physical changes that aging can have on your body and overall health. For instance, it’s common for seniors to experience issues such as:

• Worsening vision or decreased hearing
• Memory loss
• Chronic conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis
• Mobility issues due to reduced strength, flexibility or balance
• Increasing risk for illness due to weakened immune systems
• Social isolation and loneliness that lead to depression

All of the above can have a significant impact on your quality of life. For that reason, it’s so important to have a plan ready for your future; as your body and health needs change, you can be sure you’ll be well cared for in any situation.

What it Truly Means to Age in Place

Older adults approaching their retirement years often begin thinking about how they would like to spend their post-working years. Maybe you plan to travel the country for a while, or perhaps you want to sit down and write your memoir. However, while you’re considering your short-term future, it’s also important to plan ahead for the longer term.

Many seniors today are recognizing the benefits a life plan community, or continuing care retirement community (CCRC), can offer to them. If you’re starting to think about downsizing your home and moving to a smaller, more manageable and maintenance-free living space, life plan communities offer senior independent living options like comfortable villas or apartment homes. The added benefit? Should your health needs change, the level of care provided changes with you. Assisted living, skilled nursing care, rehabilitation services and memory support are all provided on the same convenient campus, offering a true way to age in place.

Plus, life plan communities address more than just your physical health needs. Because numerous studies reveal a connection between an active social life and improved physical, emotional and mental health, residents are encouraged to stay engaged through a wide variety of activities, events, committees, volunteer opportunities and more.

Age in Place at Immanuel Living

Live life on your own terms at Kalispell’s only life plan community, Immanuel Living. You’ll rest easy know you have a plan for all of life’s “what-ifs” while enjoying a fulfilling lifestyle that includes everything you need to continue socializing, learning, relaxing and growing. Contact us to learn more about our Kalispell retirement community, or view our floor plans to start planning for your future today.