Our home is a part of who we are. It's the place we feel most secure and most able to be ourselves. The safety, autonomy, and comfort of remaining in our home as we age is a priority for many seniors. Although lifestyle needs may change, the value of our own space stays consistent.
More and more active adult communities are supporting aging in place, with onsite resources to help residents transition without moving. Board members are a part of this journey, empowering residents in their independence. The team at GrandManors is here to support community leaders and residents alike in building effective transitional communities.
If you've never considered aging in place before or simply want to learn a little more about what a seamless transition could look like, we've put together a brief guide for board members to better understand their residents' perspectives and how to support them.
What Considerations Go Into Aging in Place for Active Adults?
The best time to start thinking about aging in place is well before you need additional care. When considering their top choices for active adult communities, residents often take into account whether or not these communities include resources and support for aging in place. If their top choices do not offer onsite support, nearby facilities such as home health aid services are considered the next best option.
For residents, it's equally important to anticipate the type of support you may need in the future. Do you have any pre-existing conditions that may become more challenging with age? Is there a family history of diseases such as diabetes that may require onsite health care and in-home assistance at some point in your life? Answering these questions now can help residents prepare for the type of resources they'll need when aging in place and inform of care needs to consider.
Ensuring Home Safety and Accessibility
Make sure your maintenance team is on point with residential safety. Don't wait on repairs. Fix simple safety hazards early such as replacing rugs with no-slip alternatives for furnished units, securing loose railings, and adding safety bars to the bathroom area. Consider common issues such as poor lighting and invest in solutions for the future of your tenants.
The National Institute on Aging provides a helpful guide to home safety that will assist in making sure your space will grow along with resident needs.
How Can Active Adult Communities Support Residents Planning to Age in Place?
Knowing what to expect from an age-restrict community can help prospective residents plan their retirement with ease and assurance. HOAs and community managers can help empower residents by establishing a clear and reliable standard of living.
Is Your Community Accessible and Inclusive?
Accessibility and inclusion are key aspects of making sure residents feel at home, both now and in the future. Mindful retirement community managers and associations should consider ADA accommodations to prioritize residents' evolving needs. Wheelchair ramps, wider sidewalks, large print signage, and other details can make a big difference in residents' lives.
Communities should strive to not only be accessible, but inclusive. What activities and social events are available for residents who want to stay active and engaged, but are no longer able to participate in high-intensity sports and recreation? Is there a supportive culture of neighbors who are in a similar independent living situation? Considering these factors will help homeowners make the best decision on where to settle as they age
Is Your Community Safe?
Future tenants should consider the safety and upkeep of a community before moving in. HOAs can do their part during tours of the area by answering any questions regarding routine maintenance schedules and presenting clean, hazard-free common spaces. Be prepared to answer questions regarding seasonal maintenance needs as well as routine care.
What Resources Are Available to Support Aging in Place?
Most importantly, onsite or nearby support will empower residents to age within the comfort of their community. This might include home healthcare, onsite medical centers, mobility assistance, and concierge services.
Everyone deserves to enjoy the security of a place to call home. Contact us today to learn more about how GrandManors can help your community!
