As humans, we’re all inevitably faced with the reality of aging. Our physical strength and independence may remain unshaken today, but our bodies will gradually demand more attention and support as the years go by. While urban living often makes it relatively straightforward to cope with these changes, rural areas can present a different set of challenges.
It’s crucial for individuals and families alike to develop strategies for aging in place, especially when dealing with the unique obstacles that come with rural living.
What Does “Aging in Place” Mean?
Many individuals aspire to ‘age in place,’ which involves maintaining independence by staying in their primary residence throughout their golden years, rather than transitioning into assisted living facilities or cohabiting with family members. While it’s natural to desire the comfort and familiarity of one’s own home for as long as possible, it’s equally crucial to recognize that aging often requires additional support and accommodations.
To successfully age in place, it’s vital to proactively consider and address potential future needs. With this in mind, several key factors will need to be taken into account when preparing a rural home for longevity, including [insert common issues]
Home Modifications for Accessibility and Safety
Aging in place is all about maintaining independence by staying in one’s own home for as long as feasible. To achieve this, it’s crucial to adapt the home’s interior to ensure a safe and accessible living environment.
Put in Grab Bars and Handrails
As we age, our joints weaken and balance diminishes, making it essential to prioritize accessibility in our living spaces. Installing grab bars and handrails in strategic locations can provide valuable support when needed most. For instance, a toilet-side grab bar can offer the extra boost you need for sitting and standing, while handrails in the bathtub or shower area can provide stability during moments of dizziness or weakness.
Similarly, corridors and doorways with small sets of steps may seem insignificant today but could become major hurdles 30-40 years down the line. The key to aging-in-place successfully lies in anticipating our future needs and making thoughtful design decisions accordingly. When it comes to multi-story homes, double-checking the banisters to ensure they’re sturdy and won’t give way under pressure is also crucial.
Install Slip-Resistant Flooring
Hardwood and marble floors may boast a stunning appearance and effortless cleaning, but they pose a significant risk for individuals aging in place. Slippery surfaces can lead to devastating consequences, including hip fractures or elbow breaks. Fortunately, numerous non-slip flooring options are now available, catering to various aesthetic preferences. Depending on your budget, you might opt for textured vinyl coatings to cover existing floors or replace them entirely.
Alternatively, strategically placing rugs or rolls in high-risk areas like bathrooms and kitchens can provide an added layer of security. For a more comprehensive solution, consider cork flooring, which combines slip-resistance with insulation. Its unique spongy texture reduces the likelihood of bone fractures if a fall occurs, making it an attractive option for pet owners – particularly those without large pets.
Consider Installing Ramps
When contemplating potential future needs for mobility aids like wheelchairs, it’s crucial to plan ahead and install ramps in your home or building. This foresight can significantly reduce stress and inconvenience should the need arise, allowing you to seamlessly transition into using a wheelchair or other aid when required.
Determine Whether You’ll Need to Widen Doorways
When considering the accessibility needs of yourself, family members, or future occupants, it’s essential to assess your home’s entry points. Measure your doorways to determine whether they can accommodate wheelchairs as is, or if modifications are necessary. Many older homes, like century-old farmhouses, feature narrower doorways than modern buildings, which may require adjustments to ensure smooth wheelchair navigation.
Think About Rearranging Living Quarters
In years gone by, it was a common practice for elderly family members to relocate their bedrooms to the main floor as navigating stairwells became increasingly challenging. While this approach may not be feasible for everyone, it’s crucial to consider the long-term benefits of such a move.
By reserving second-floor bedrooms for younger family members and utilizing them primarily for storage or occasional activities, you can significantly reduce future discomfort (and potential arthritis flare-ups) that might arise from navigating stairs.
Consider Installing Some Smart Home Options
While some individuals may not find this option appealing, especially those who value self-sufficiency and an off-grid lifestyle, it’s essential to acknowledge the benefits that come with integrating smart technology into one’s daily life. The implementation of smart security and emergency alert systems can significantly enhance personal safety by swiftly sending out distress calls to emergency responders when needed.
Additionally, electronic medication dispensers can help prevent accidental overdoses, while smart appliances such as stoves or ovens can automatically shut off after prolonged periods of inactivity, minimizing the risk of fires. By embracing these innovations, individuals can enjoy a safer and more convenient living experience.
Community Support Options
In rural areas, the journey of aging in place is often made more manageable by the power of community support. To reap the benefits, it’s essential to explore the various resources and programs designed to help individuals thrive in their own homes.
Determine Potential Transportation Needs
As you’ve gained autonomy and independence, it’s essential to consider how you’ll navigate daily tasks without relying on personal transportation. While it may seem daunting, there are various options available. Start by researching public transportation services in your area, even if you’re living in a rural setting where buses may not be as frequent. You can also explore ride-sharing services or seek out volunteer opportunities that allow seniors to receive assistance with outings and errands.
One creative solution is to connect with local high school students who need to complete community service hours for graduation requirements. This collaboration can benefit both parties, allowing you to get your errands done while forging connections with younger individuals in your community.
Set Up Deliveries
Minimize your need to venture out by streamlining deliveries from common shopping destinations. Take farmer’s markets, for instance. Instead of driving to these local hubs, consider subscribing to Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) box programs that deliver fresh produce right to your doorstep. This thoughtful approach not only reduces your travel burden but also offers an added layer of social support.
The farmers delivering the boxes will have regular interactions with you, providing opportunities for them to check in and ensure everything is okay if they notice any concerns, such as a missed delivery or no signs of recent activity. If necessary, these concerned individuals can even contact emergency services on your behalf.
Organize Extra Help for Your Home or Homestead
As we grow older, it’s natural to confront the reality that our physical abilities may diminish. While it’s difficult to accept, the truth is that most of us won’t be as capable at 75 or 80 as we are at 35 or 40. As someone in my late 40s, I’ve already experienced this firsthand – after a few hours of intense physical activity, such as chopping firewood, I need to spend some quality time with a heating pad and Advil to ease the soreness.
It’s a humbling experience that reminds me that, eventually, we’ll all require additional assistance in our daily lives. This may manifest in various ways, like outsourcing tasks like aged firewood delivery or driveway maintenance to local professionals instead of doing them ourselves.
The same applies to gardening, harvesting, and animal care – there’s no shame in seeking help when needed, as long as the priority remains getting the work done efficiently rather than clinging to outdated notions of pride.
Sort Out Guardianship or Care for Dependent Family Members
As we age, it’s crucial to consider the impact of our mortality on those around us. Our loved ones will inevitably face similar challenges as they grow older, whether it’s caring for aging parents or supporting adult children with special needs. The importance of planning for their care cannot be overstated, especially when considering unpredictable events like Alzheimer’s, dementia, or strokes that can affect decision-making capacity.
When discussing long-term care options, kinship care with relatives might be a viable choice. Alternatively, group homes or facilities may be necessary. It’s essential to secure financial support through personal savings or disability benefits for these arrangements. In some cases, consulting a lawyer to appoint a guardian ad litem can ensure the well-being and care of family members upon your passing.
Have Emergency Protocols For Aging in Place
The stark reality of neglect and isolation is a daunting prospect for many, particularly those without regular social connections. Horrific tales of individuals left injured or deceased for extended periods before being discovered – often due to accumulated mail or other signs of prolonged absence – serve as a grim reminder of the potential consequences when we don’t have daily interactions with loved ones.
As we contemplate our options for aging in place, it’s essential to acknowledge this risk and take proactive measures to prevent such an outcome.
Establish Check-Ins with Other People
When it comes to planning for unexpected situations, having a support system in place can be a lifesaver. Consider identifying a few trusted individuals in your community who can keep an eye on things for you. This could include friendly neighbors, care providers, or clergy members. Arrange regular check-ins with them to let them know everything is okay. If they don’t hear from you after 48-72 hours, give them permission to swing by and check on you if needed.
To make it even easier for them to help, consider giving one of these individuals a spare key to your home or letting them know where you’ve hidden a spare. This way, they won’t have to worry about breaking into your property in the event of an emergency.
It’s also important to ensure that at least three people have access to all the necessary contact information. This should include your next of kin, primary healthcare provider, and lawyer (if applicable).
This way, if you’re unable to reach out yourself, they’ll be able to notify those important parties for you.
Make Sure Animal Care Needs are Documented
When planning for the unexpected, it’s essential to have a comprehensive system in place for caring for your animals. This is particularly crucial if any of them have special needs, as they may require unique attention that only you can provide. To ensure continuity of care, maintain a centralized binder with detailed information and guidelines, making sure it’s easily accessible and clearly labeled.
Designate at least three trusted individuals to know where this binder is located, perhaps by placing it on your kitchen counter or top shelf of the fridge, with bold lettering on the spine. Additionally, keep an informational card in your wallet detailing how to find this crucial resource. Some individuals also opt for visual reminders, such as stickers on doors or windows indicating the number of animals that require care in case of emergency.
To further prepare, establish clear protocols for who will be responsible for which animals in the event you’re incapacitated or unexpectedly pass away. This might involve designating a guardian or establishing a network of trusted caregivers. Having a plan in place can bring immense comfort knowing your beloved animal companions will continue to receive the care they need. While aging in a rural setting may seem daunting, it’s possible to proactively adapt and thrive.
By making small changes ahead of time, building relationships with local residents, and prioritizing health and wellness, you can confidently age in place within your country home.
