How to Continue to Live at Home as You Age

Given the choice, most people want to stay in their homes as they age. In one AARP survey, 89% of those 50 and older said they preferred to remain in their own residence, and the older the respondents, the stronger their feelings on the subject.

"The people for whom it is hardest to stay in their house want to stay the most," says Elinor Ginzler, coauthor of Caring for Your Parents and the director of livable communities at AARP, the Washington, D.C.–based lobbying group for older Americans. The good news: It may very well be possible. By carefully thinking through your options before you're in poor health, your home environment can meet your needs for the rest of your life. Here are some suggestions.

Modify your house
Narrow hallways, slippery floors, steps—homes are filled with hazards for an aging person. Research suggests that making modifications and repairs can prevent about a third of home accidents. "Falls are the leading cause of death and disability among older people," says Ginzler. Increase safety with these simple, quick methods.

• Remove throw rugs to prevent tripping
  
  
• Install motion-sensor lighting to make nighttime trips to the bathroom less perilous
  
  
• Use a no-skid spray on slippery floor surfaces like tiles and linoleum
  
  
• Install grab bars in tubs and on stairs
  
  
• Remove knobs on cupboards and replace them with lever handles, which are easier to grasp

Of course, you may want to make more extensive renovations to your home, such as installing ramps or redesigning kitchens and baths. Think about working with a certified aging-in-place specialist (CAPS), a builder who has been trained by the National Association of Homebuilders to assess the improvements you may need.

Enlist your family
Make sure your family knows you wish to remain in your home as long as possible. You can do that in an advanced care directive, which lays out the type of care you want toward the end of your life. Better to have forthright discussions up front so that you can discuss how your desire to stay at home can be achieved. Adult children may not realize that parents can be safe at home if the right modifications are made.