It is a common goal for seniors to age in place, according to the National Institute on Aging. This sounds good, but is it a realistic goal for most seniors?
First, let’s agree that aging in place does not mean that you simply stay in your home as you age. It is important to develop an “aging in place plan” to determine whether your home meets your needs now – and will continue to meet your needs as you age. Your home should offer safe independent living, and the opportunity to socialize and keep your mind and body active. Your community and your home environment are essential considerations for aging in place.
Nassau County Council on Aging has a local go-to resource to help navigate information gathering and create a plan that’s right for you. Mary Lee Byrd is an Amelia Island resident and Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS), an expert on what modifications are needed in an existing home to promote independence and safety. She can provide a home modification assessment, identifying potential roadblocks to aging in place and recommending solutions.
The CAPS designation is used to identify those who have been trained on the unique needs of seniors, modifying homes so people can live there longer as they age and addressing the most common barriers in a home. A CAPS professional is a graduate of a comprehensive designation program created by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), in collaboration with Home Innovation Research Labs, NAHB 50+ Housing Council and the AARP.
Most CAPS assessments result in minor changes throughout the house, such as anchoring throw rugs, gathering electrical cords together or installing grab bars. Some homeowners may choose to remodel, depending on resources. The $25 home modification assessment fee helps fund NCCOA’s CHORE (Small Home Repair) Program, which provides minor cosmetic changes to a senior’s home (grab bars, ramps, etc.), allowing that person to age in place more successfully. (Note: CHORE recipients are seniors, with or without financial resources; if a senior is not able to pay for these changes, NCCOA attempts to secure funding.) To make an appointment for a home assessment, contact Mary Lee at mbyrd@nassaucountycoa.org.
Another source for aging in place information is the Home Fit Guide, published by AARP available online
We are fortunate to live in Nassau County, designated as an AARP Livable Community. This designation means that our community is deemed a safe and secure place for people of all ages to live. Of course, your Council on Aging is also on your side with age-friendly programs and services, activities and opportunities needed to successfully age in place.
We’re all in this together.