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Below we look at how Senior Centers help those who choose
to age in place.
Transportation
Transportation is one of the number one
issues for seniors. A lack of reliable transportation is
a safety hazard and can also isolate seniors by making them
homebound. Many seniors are uncomfortable taking expensive
taxis or using city transportation services.
In response to this problem some senior
centers have begun providing transportation to those who
live at home for a minimal cost. Drivers are usually a mix
of volunteers with a few paid personnel. They offer services
like coming to the door and carrying packages that are not
offered by traditional transportation options.
Geriatric Care Managers
Geriatric care managers, also known as life
care managers, are trained in gerontology, counseling, nursing,
and social work. These experts can provide a wide array
of services to the aging in place client giving them care
that is typically offered at a senior center. They also
help the senior by making appropriate referrals to other
professionals or agencies.
Safety Assessment
Senior center staff can come to a home and
perform an in-home safety assessment to identify safety
hazards and make recommendations on how to make the home
more convenient to the aging process. Home modifications
including telecommunications, entryways and exits make a
huge difference to the senior who wants to stay at home.
Personal Care
Personal care workers can come in and help
the client bathe, get dressed and provide light house duty.
Many seniors are healthy enough to remain at home without
risk but need a little extra help with daily personal duties
and household chores. Some personal care workers will also
help remind clients to take their prescription medications.
There are medical and non-medical personal care workers.
Non-medical workers are less expensive but cannot provide
the range of services as medical workers.
Meals
Food services such as personal shopping,
and meals on wheels programs provide much needed food and
nutritional services for seniors who have transportation
issues. The program provides nutritious meals that provide
the vitamins and nutrients seniors need to keep healthy.
Financial Planning
Seniors often have difficulty keeping track
of their finances and putting their financial house in order
in the event that they pass on suddenly. Senior center personnel
can refer aging at home clients to financial planners who
specialize in elder care financial planning. Senior financial
planners will typically involve the senior’s family
so they can assist with things such as insurance options,
Medicare, and estate planning
Home Remodeling
Senior home remodeling has turned into a
thriving industry as seniors who want to age at home need
to make modifications to their home. Senior centers can
refer specialized contractors who specialize in aging at
home modifications and are certified. Aging at home contractors
can come in and make changes such as:
· Entries without steps
· Non-skid flooring
· Temperature controlled faucets on sinks and tubs
· Installation of medical response device
· Large bathrooms with turnaround space for wheelchairs
and walkers
· Higher countertops
· Grab bars at shower, tubs, and toilets
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