Health Matters: Aging in place spells senior independence

As of the first day of 2011, a woman named Kathy was the first of 78 million baby boomers to turn 65. According to the AARP Bulletin, she will be followed by another boomer every eight seconds, more than 10,000 a day, for the next 18 years. By the time the last boomer turns 65, on Dec. 31, 2029, the size of the 65-plus population will be nearly double what it is today. And by 2050, one person in five will be 65 or older.

The implications are staggering. One of the questions that come to mind is where are they likely to go? Will the population shift dramatically to the “hot spots?” Probably not if you believe information provided by Aginginplaceinitiative.org. Contrary to popular belief, only a small minority of seniors move to warmer climates upon retirement. Instead, most Americans choose to age in place within the same communities where they have long lived.

The phrase, “Aging in Place,” is often associated with the idea of living out life with a degree of independence and relative comfort in an individual’s home. In recent industry surveys, the vast majority of seniors polled, typically 90 percent, say that’s where they’d prefer to be. The preference for being at home was also revealed in the National Home Instead Senior Care Survey where 83 percent of those surveyed stated they were “very or somewhat likely” to remain at home.

The concept of “Aging In Place” is so popular that February has even been designated as National Senior Independence Month to increase awareness and celebrate seniors who choose to age in their own homes and maintain independence. However, without a plan, it can be hard to stay in control of one’s life. Yet, knowing available options can make a big difference in one’s ability to stay in a familiar place.

Improved technology has resulted in many positive changes in durable medical equipment. Even five years ago, CPAP respiratory devices used in treating obstructive sleep apnea (periodic episodes of breathing cessation during sleep) were cumbersome at best. Today, masks are smaller, more flexible, and available in more sizes for a better and more comfortable fit. A mask specifically designed for women has also become available.

Home delivery of oxygen has also undergone changes for the better. Units are smaller, lighter and portable. Today, there are even small units available to carry over the shoulder while traveling or a larger version that pulls-along like luggage. The transport wheel chair is another example of improved equipment technology as it is considerably lighter in weight and easier to steer.

Affordable, portable bathroom safety equipment is another area of improvement. For example, the battery-powered Sonaris Bathmaster allows individuals with mobility issues to take a tub bath independently. This appliance and other bathroom aids, including safety rails, require no permanent installation.

Many durable medical equipment items are covered by insurance – Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurances. Some companies including Freeport Home Medical Equipment also take assignment on many billable products. This means, that depending on your insurance, you may have little or no out-of-pocket expense for equipment your health care provider has deemed medically necessary.

Carolyn Sluiter, RRT, RCP, CFm, is president of Freeport Home Medical Equipment, 307 W. Main St. in Freeport. For more information, visit www.freeporthomemedical.com.

Health Matters: Aging in place spells senior independence - Freeport, IL - The Journal-Standard