How to Age in Place

More than three-quarters of people age 50 and older prefer to remain in their own homes and communities as they age, according to the AARP.

Known as “aging in place,” living at home during one’s later years can provide many benefits, including increased independence, comfort, and quality of life.

As older adults plan for their future, one of the biggest factors to consider is mental and physical health, say Yale School of Medicine experts, who offer the following tips for those who choose to grow old at home rather than move into an assisted living facility or retirement home.

Staying socially engaged is not only cognitively stimulating but also essential in reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness, according to Maura Singh, MD, assistant professor of medicine (geriatric medicine).

“Regular interactions with friends or family provide opportunities for physical activity and mental engagement and can promote emotional well-being,” Singh said. “Even when leaving the home is difficult, virtual connections through phone calls, video chats, or other shared activities can help maintain a sense of community and purpose.”

In addition to keeping in touch with family and friends, Barry Wu, MD, professor of medicine (geriatric medicine), recommends exercise.

“I call my 91-year-old mom daily to encourage her to ambulate using her walker at home,” Wu said. “I also remind her on the call to avoid falls as this will adversely affect her quality of life.”

Older adults often face barriers to being physically active, especially after hospitalization for conditions such as critical illnesses, according to Snigdha Jain, MD, MHS, assistant professor of medicine (pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine).

“These barriers may be physical symptoms, such as pain or fatigue, or mental health symptoms, such as feeling depressed or anxious,” Jain said. “They may also be contextual barriers, such as not having a walking aid needed for balance or a safe neighborhood to allow being active.”

Jain suggests sharing any physical, mental, or social barriers with care providers to develop strategies for addressing them.

Most older adults will have multiple chronic conditions and face tradeoffs when it comes to their care, points out Mary Tinetti, MD, Gladys Phillips Crofoot Professor of Medicine (Geriatrics) and co-creator of Patient Priorities Care.

“To continue aging at home, you may have to balance the benefits with the burdens of care,” she said. “Understanding your health priorities will help you and your care team make the right decisions.”

MyHealthPriorities.org is a systematic way to help you identify what matters most about your health and your health care, Tinetti said.

The Department of Internal Medicine at Yale School of Medicine is among the nation's premier departments, bringing together an elite cadre of clinicians, investigators, educators, and staff in one of the world's top medical schools. To learn more, visit Internal Medicine.