Staying Home Becoming More of a Reality for Older Americans
Published at
iStock/Thinkstock(WASHINGTON) — If given the choice, most senior citizens would prefer to remain in their own homes even if they become disabled than having to reside in assisted-living or long-term care facilities.
That preference is becoming more feasible, according to the 2013 survey by the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging.
In a poll of 618 local service providers, 70 percent say they offer programs to help the elderly stay at home, which is also referred to as “aging in place.” Just six years ago, fewer than a third of providers offered this service.
The federal government is cognizant that the older population will grow dramatically as more Baby Boomers pass the 65-year-old threshold.
One way to help seniors continue a normal, independent way of life is the creation of supportive communities that assist them in their daily needs.
Meanwhile, when an older person returns home from a hospital stay, local providers partner with private health-care companies and managed-care providers to ensure a home is safe from hazards in an effort to reduce the chances of falls.
Follow @ABCNewsRadio
Copyright 2014 ABC News Radio