As society ages, it is increasingly crucial that we enable people to age healthily and successfully. The latest edition of the National Poll on Healthy Aging from the University of Michigan highlights how far we still have to go.

The survey reveals that most people over 50 want to remain in their own homes for as long as possible. Worryingly, however, few have made any real plans to enable this “aging in place” to occur, with few being able to afford any in-home care or help to take place.

Living independently

The researchers highlight the spotlight that has been shone on the value of living independently during the Covid pandemic, which emphasized the difficulties of living in nursing homes and similar facilities. The findings also show, however, that people in their 50s, 60s, and 70s need to do far more to plan for services or modify their homes if they want to stay at home and avoid moving into dedicated facilities.

Around 88% of respondents said that living in their own homes for as long as possible was important to them, but despite this, just 15% said that they had considered what changes to their home might be needed as they age, with nearly half giving it no consideration at all.

This is especially pressing as around half of those who reported living alone said that they don’t really have anyone who they could ask for help with personal care. What’s more, just 19% of respondents thought they would be able to afford to hire help, even for things such as doing grocery shopping or household chores.

“The pandemic’s impact on older adults, and policy proposals about home-based services at the federal and state level, mean this is a topic of immediate importance,” the researchers explain. “Especially for those without as much social support, or with more health needs, it’s important to take a proactive approach and plan for the future now.”

Being proactive

The researchers believe that a collaborative approach is required, with older adults being proactive in exploring their options with healthcare providers and local services as well as talking with loved ones about their goals as they age.

“Taking steps to understand what’s available in the community, through the national Eldercare Locator, the Area Agency on Aging that serves your region, nonprofit organizations and other sources could help older adults be more prepared,” they explain.

“Family members can help encourage older adults to find out what’s available, to invest in home improvements, and to aid them in installing safety devices and technologies that can help keep them aging in place. Think of it as a positive investment toward current safety and future independence—that can help older adults get past the temptation to put it off for another day.”