AGING IN PLACE
"Aging in place" refers to the ability to live in one's own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level. It involves making necessary home modifications and accessing support services to maintain independence and quality of life as one ages. Here's a more detailed look at aging in place:
What it means:
- Staying in your home: Aging in place is about remaining in your current home and community for as long as possible, rather than moving to a retirement home or assisted living facility.
- Maintaining independence: It's about adapting your home and lifestyle to continue living independently and comfortably as your needs change.
- Access to support: This often involves accessing support services like home health care, transportation, and social activities to ensure safety and well-being.
Benefits of aging in place:
- Familiar surroundings: Staying in your home provides comfort and familiarity, which can be especially important for people with dementia or memory loss.
- Reduced stress: Avoiding the stress of moving and adjusting to a new environment can improve mental health and well-being.
- Independence and autonomy: You maintain control over your daily routines and choices, which can boost self-esteem and independence.
- Cost savings: In some cases, aging in place can be more affordable than moving to a retirement community or assisted living facility, depending on the costs of home modifications and support services.
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Currently serving the Pittsburgh Metro area
WHAT IS A CAPS PROFESSIONAL?
CERTIFIED AGING IN PLACE SPECIALIST
A Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) is a professional trained to help older adults and individuals with disabilities remain in their homes safely and comfortably by recommending home modifications and design solutions, often working with remodelers, architects, or occupational therapists. Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- What they do: CAPS professionals conduct home assessments, identify potential safety hazards, and propose solutions to enhance accessibility and comfort.
- Who they are: CAPS designees can come from various backgrounds, including remodelers, architects, designers, general contractors, and healthcare professionals, but they all share a focus on aging in place.
- Why they are important: They help individuals and families make informed decisions about home modifications, ensuring that homes are not only safe and functional but also aesthetically pleasing.
- Certification: The CAPS designation is awarded by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) in collaboration with the AARP, ensuring a standard of expertise in the field.
- Benefits of working with a CAPS: They can help identify the most appropriate modifications for specific needs, provide guidance on design and implementation, and ensure that the home is a safe and comfortable space for the individual to age in place.
- Examples of home modifications: CAPS professionals may recommend things like grab bars, ramps, wider doorways, non-slip flooring, and accessible kitchens and bathrooms.
Why call us?
Not only are we CAPS certified, we combine 36 years of nursing knowledge and Dementia care in to our assessments. What may your disease process have in store for you? We can help you understand that and the needs that that may bring for you in you home.
How can you keep your loved one safe in the home now that you have a diagnosis of Dementia? The average lifespan of a dementia patient is around 12 years and being in the home as long as possible is ideal.
Heart and Mind Training can give you the tools in so many ways to help you and your family stay together.
Announcement!!
We CANNOT accept Pennsylvania residents for our Dementia Seminar