Few topics touch every family as deeply as aging. Whether it’s planning for your own future or helping a loved one stay comfortable and independent at home, “aging in place” often becomes a central part of the family conversation. The goal isn’t just to avoid a move to assisted living; it’s to preserve safety, dignity, and the confidence to enjoy life’s later years. Below are two key areas to consider when planning:
1. Evaluating the Home Environment
A good first step is evaluating whether the current home can remain safe and accessible as physical needs change. Consider:
- Accessibility: Wider doorways, single-level living, grab bars, non-slip flooring, and well-lit walkways all make daily living easier (and safer).
- Technology: Smart home devices, fall detection systems, and remote monitoring support independence while keeping family members connected.
- Maintenance: Simple modifications, such as lever-style handles or raised garden beds, can make everyday tasks more manageable.
2. Preparing Financially (This is where JSA comes in)
Aging in place also requires thoughtful financial planning. Families should consider:
- Home renovation costs: Accessibility improvements can range from modest updates to major remodels.
- In-home care: As needs evolve, budgeting for visiting nurses, caregivers, or cleaning services helps maintain quality of life.
- Insurance and benefits: Self-insuring (setting aside money to cover the costs of aging in place) is standard. Other resources include veterans’ benefits, long-term care insurance, or life insurance policy riders; however, these last two options are often expensive.
Open conversations about aging in place help families align expectations, reduce stress, and provide peace of mind for both parents and children.
Successful aging at home also depends on having a strong support system. While family and community networks remain essential, professional guidance can make a meaningful difference. Care coordinators, accountants, elder law attorneys, and your advisors at JSA can help navigate the complexities of healthcare choices, tax considerations, and ongoing estate planning needs, ensuring that each piece works together to support long-term independence.
If you’d like to see how these considerations fit into your overall financial or estate plans, our team is ready to guide you. We’re here to support you and your loved ones every step of the way. To get started, you can schedule a conversation with our team at any time on jandsadvisors.com/get-started.
