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Supportive Living Environments for Older Adults: Summary
AGE-RELATED PREPARATION
INTRODUCTION
LEARNING TIP!
POPULATION AGING
Defined as the ongoing thoughts and plans to structure safe and healthy aging living, help develop coping strategies to prevent and recover from disruption and crises o Includes retirement plans, planning for older adulthood, end-of-life plans and wishes o Helps to reduce future stressors by being prepared for how things may change • Identification of individual factors and social policies are necessary • Goals of age-related preparation are to prepare for: o Health challenges o Loss/transition o Housing transition o Managing cognitive changes or illness o Future mobility issues o Financial planning o Mitigating future threats/obstacles that affect safety
The aging population is growing: • As of 2020, there were 10,000 baby boomers turning age 65 every day • By 2030, 1 in 5 Americans will be >65 years old with a life expectancy of nearly 20 more years “Aging in place” is a common desired goal; therefore, accommodating aging lives with safe environments is a social issue that requires planning.
Aging in Place Benefits
Limitations
• Improved quality of life • Reduced healthcare costs • Increased social opportunities (e.g., lunch with friends)
• Age-related health changes • Loss of independence (vulnerability, loneliness) • Increased risk of injury (fall) • Transportation challenges
LEARNING TIP!
Aging may also involve the need to accept some kind of vulnerability.
Safe Living Options • Minor changes in the home can improve independence
The Third Age • Historically, retirement age (60–80 years old) • Prevalent factors: o Activity changes o Generativity o Health maintenance o Retirement o Housing plans The Fourth Age • Advanced age (in regard to ability, not age specific) • Prevalent factors: o Increased frailty o Loss of functionality Preparation for Future Care (PFC) • Defines actions to obtain assistance with ADL, housework, and self-care • Creates a plan developed by acceptance of age- related changes • Helps identify opportunities for supportive aging • Evaluates potential risks to plan accordingly; evaluation should include: o Potential for losses o Gathering information about health and behaviors
• Safe housing choices will be affected by individual choices, finances, location, health, and willingness Supportive Living Programs • Clinical home care (PT, OT, wound care) • Services for home modifications (ramps, grab bars) • Access to community-based programs • Case management services • CAPABLE Program (Community Aging in Place- Advancing Better Living for Elders): o 5-month program with 10 home visits, including nursing, OT, and handy worker o Frequently funded through Medicaid and Medicare Advantage Allied healthcare professionals should be on the forefront of this initiative because they can help educate, advocate, and provide resources for these patients. PTs/OTs and other healthcare professionals can help to recognize and identify the needs for healthy aging environments and age-friendly cities, including housing, community organizations, accessible health services, safe outdoor space, and transportation. They can also help communicate information to older adults regarding expectations for successful aging and desires to help set achievable goals.
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