Caregiver Corner
By Jennifer Beach
More than 11,200 people a day turn 65 in the United States. That is about 4.1 million Americans retiring each year through 2027, a trend known as the Grey Tsunami or also known as the Peak 65 Zone. Baby Boomers seem to be breaking all the old stereotypes about aging, changing long-standing notions about savings, spending, retirement and health.
Even with the pressures of inflation, today’s 65-year-olds are finding ways to save. Many believe their 401(K) is their top way to save, others invest in stocks, cash and U.S. Bonds. The Boomers are spenders too, enjoying travel, eating out regularly and helping other family members.
The tides are changing for retirement, as well. Many are extending their careers or starting new work opportunities after they “retire.” According to Empower Personal DashBoard, 41% work for fulfillment, 40% for financial need, 37% for sense of purpose and more than half (51%) of Americans share the concern they haven’t saved enough money and will run out.
Technology and medical advancements have changed the way numerous Boomers are taking care of themselves. Many over 65 are embracing active lifestyles, from pickleball and yoga to monitoring and increasing their daily steps. All these activities, including sleep cycles, blood pressure and heart rate, can be tracked and managed with smart devices. Many are choosing healthy diets, practicing meditation, and staying connected.
It is important to note that while Boomers are taking advantage of all these resources and changes resulting in living longer, they are also experiencing a rise in chronic conditions and health challenges compared to the previous generations at the same age. Proactive lifestyles are essential for overcoming challenges and leading a fulfilling life. Eventually, support and assistance will be required for many. Depending on multiple factors, including both financial and non-financial resources, will be the deciding factor on their future.
For some, assisted living and long-term care may be required but for many, staying at home will continue to be an option. Aging in your own home can provide many different benefits from financial, to comfort and stability to overall contentment. While everyone has their own unique reasons to remain in their home, valuable key factors to consider are independence, familiar surroundings, established routines and reduced living costs. If the goal is to stay at home, one important consideration is to look at your current health and your home. Are you willing to adapt, modify and change to meet your changing needs as they evolve? For some individuals, little assistance may be required but for others, home modifications, social support and personal services become a necessity.
Products and Services to Consider
- House cleaning
- Laundry Service
- Meal Preparation
- Lawn Maintenance
- Home Maintenance (cleaning gutters, windows, etc.)
- Personal Care Services
- Medication Management
- Incontinence Care
- Fitness and Balance Training
- Support to Help Manage Health Care System
- Support Paying Bills, Managing Finances
- Hygiene (dental, bathing, shaving)
- In-Home Haircuts
- Transportation
- Errands – shopping, attending events
- Hiring In-Home Caregiver/Companion
- Technology Support/Internet connection
- Hire service to set up and train to utilize telemedicine, video conferencing, on-line delivery services, banking, security systems, cameras and more.
Home Safety
- Handrails for stairs, bathroom, entryways
- Moving & securing cord, area rugs
- Creating safe walking or wheelchair paths throughout home
- Rearranging furniture, changing rooms/floors for safest place for sleeping
- Walk-in tub w/low threshold and seat
- Raise toilet and/or raise seat
- Slip-free mats in shower/tub/floor
- Efficient/extra lighting in bathroom, bedroom, hallways
- Security systems, smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors & checking annually
- Medical alert system w/fall detection that connects to emergency services
- Updating emergency contacts, medications, legal documents, and any pertinent information
- Keep information in a designated location and inform a designated person about this information
- Home safety checklists
Three checklists to check out: Center for Disease Control and Prevention Check for Safety, National Institute of Aging Fall-Proofing Your Home, and National Fire Protection Association Home Safety Checklist.
If your goal is to remain in your home as you age, there is no better time to discuss and explore the amazing resources available today. Take time now to realistically examine your home, health, resources, and goals. Consider talking with your doctor, a certified Aging Life Care Professional®, Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist from the National Association of Home Builders and/or a Certified Financial Planner.® You can also gather information from your local Area on Aging. Utilizing available resources can help answer questions, brainstorm ideas, keep you on track and develop a realistic plan to help you remain safely in your home as you age.
