Independent Living
As we age, we all would like to maintain independence and do what we can for ourselves. Many older adults can maintain this independence, however, making some plans or modifications may be a good idea. Staying active is a positive way to stay happy and healthy as well as improve balance and mobility.
At the Rochester contact center, trained specialists link you with the information you need to make informed decisions. We keep up with the growing aging network, community-based services, housing options, assistance programs, healthy aging workshops, caregiving support and more. Let us open the door for you to see the possibilities for aging well, planning well and living well.
Plan Ahead to Stay at Home
For many older adults, staying in their home is important. It is where they are comfortable and feel secure.
Aging is place can happen when you have a good plan.
Working with What You Have
When looking to make changes in your home to assist with aging in place, consider the cost for improvements versus the cost of an assisted living arrangement. Investing in your home may be the right choice for you. Common improvements are widening doorways, remodeling bathrooms and adding a ramp or stair lift. It is also important to identify any obstacles that may enhance falling.
Accessibility Improvements
If you choose to move forward in making modifications to your home for future accessibility improvements, look to work in contractors that are familiar with these updates. Locating a contractor with a Certified Aging in Place (CAPS) certification can be useful as this means the builder has special education. Also consider word of mouth recommendations and reading online reviews. Discussing these renovations and the cost with a trusted family member or friend may be helpful as well.
Options to live well at home
Learn about the risks that could cause you to move from home, and what you can do today. Take the risk screening to find out how you can Live Well at Home℠. but action can be taken to reduce their impact. Learn about the risks that could cause you to move from home, and what you can do today.
Safety First
Falls can drastically change your independence; so preventing a fall in the first place is key.
Here are some checklists to help you review your current living situation or else you may want to consider an assessment by a professional.
Tools for Enhancing Independent Living
For many older adults, staying in their home is important. It is where they are comfortable and feel secure.
Aging is place can happen when you have a good plan.
Staying Active & Healthily
If you already have a schedule that incorporates staying active and healthy, then you are on the right path. If you would like to start, but not sure what your options are, consider the following programs.
- Living Well with Chronic Conditions
- Living Well with Diabetes
- Living Well with Chronic Pain
- Stay Active and Independent for Life (SAIL)
- A Matter of Balance
- Stepping On
- Tai Ji Quan
Getting Assistance at Home
Returning Home
after a Hospital or Nursing Home Stay
Our Resource Coordinators can discuss services and supports available in your community to meet your needs at home and help make those arrangements.
Change in housing or living arrangement
Independence can be enhanced in the right environment. No steps, no outdoor maintenance or heavy chores can be just the ticket for staying at home. As you might suspect, a move to a more supportive environment with health related services offered in addition to meals, housekeeping and laundry comes with a price tag, and a contract. In Minnesota, before you sign a lease in a registered housing with services establishment you need to contact the Senior LinkAge Line® for Long Term Care Options Counseling. The specialist will ask you some basic questions and discuss your options. A verification code is generated which the housing provider requires.
TIP: If you are calling Senior LinkAge Line® for a housing verification code on behalf of your loved one, be prepared to either have them on the phone as well; or provide (fax) proof that you have power of attorney.
