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Despite Pandemic Percentage of Older Adults Who Want to Age in Place Stays Steady
New AARP survey reveals where and how people want to live
ablokhin/Getty Images hasn't affected is older adults' desire to stay in their homes as they age, according to a new AARP ". " Data shows that 77 percent of adults 50 and older want to remain in their homes for the long term — a number that has been consistent for more than a decade. Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine. The survey of 2,826 adults 18 and older was taken this past June and July and was AARP’s first on . It reveals new information about how people want to live as they age, what’s important to them and the popularity of options for housing. The survey also queried caregivers about their home and community needs for themselves and their loved ones. “It’s really important that we understand what people’s housing preferences are, what they want, what they need and how well their options are meeting their needs,” says Rodney Harrell, vice president of family, home and community at AARP. “It’s foundational to our work to improve housing options and communities.” Influence of COVID-19
Homes became the center of life during the pandemic. The survey found that 64 percent of adults stayed at home and almost half during that time. About half went out less during the pandemic — 56 percent said they stocked up on supplies , and 48 percent said . COVID-19 affected other aspects of home life and well-being too . 76 percent of adults 50-plus said it is very important for them to have high-speed internet , compared with 70 percent for adults under 50.58 percent of adults 50-plus reported being extremely or very concerned about the impact of COVID-19 on themselves and their families , compared with 42 percent of adults under 50 .24 percent of respondents 50-plus reported feeling less connected to their community since COVID-19 , but those 18 to 24 were even more likely to feel isolated and lonely , at 42 percent. Many older adults are homeowners and want to as they age ; indeed, only 29 percent said they plan to relocate to another community. Respondents said they value communities that provide access to clean water, healthy foods, quality health care and safe outdoor spaces. Entertainment 30% off a 1-year subscription See more Entertainment offers > Perspectives on aging in place
While some adults surveyed have a home with features to allow them to remain there as the y get older, like a bathroom on the main level (80 percent) or a room on the first floor that could be used as a bedroom (82 percent), many respondents said they would need to make changes to stay at home comfortably and safely. A third of all poll participants said they would need to modify their current residence so that they or a loved one could continue to live there if they had physical limitations. 79 percent said they would need to modify bathrooms with grab bars or no-step showers.71 percent said their home ha s inside and outside accessibility issues .61 percent said they would need an emergency response system .48 percent said they would need smart -home devices, like a voice activated home assistant or a doorbell camera . Some would consider leaving their home for one that allows them to age independently, particularly if it cost less or was physically easier to maintain. Yet some older adults may want to move but can’t, says Linna Zhu, a research associate at the Housing Finance Policy Center at the Urban Institute. “A portion of seniors are aging in place but are also stuck in place,” Linna Zhu observes. “They don’t have the financial resources to help them move or relocate or downsize, or they cannot afford to live in the nursing homes.” Nearly half of those polled said they would consider alternative living options, including an accessory dwelling unit, or ADU, which is a small dwelling that can be located on the property of an existing home or on a small piece of land. Sixty percent of adults sa id they would consider living in an ADU , and those 50-plus said they would consider making that move for the following reasons: To be near someone but maintain their space (69 percent)To have support doing daily activities (68 percent)To save money (48 percent) AARP Membership — $12 for your first year when you sign up for Automatic Renewal Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine. so older adults can age in place. 2. Age-restricted communities. Usually limited to residents age 55 and older, includes single-family homes, townhouses or apartments, often connected by sidewalks or paths. These “active adult” communities usually feature well-equipped clubhouses and other amenities, such as tennis courts and golf courses. 3. Senior apartments. Another type of age-restricted dwelling, typically for adults 55 and older, has something for everyone’s wallet, from expensive luxury units to apartments priced at market rates or below, with some built specifically for low-income people. The buildings often are accessible for disabled adults and include transportation services. Many buildings offer recreational and social services, too. 4. Cohousing. This form of consists of private homes and shared community spaces, such as dining areas, exercise rooms and gardens that encourage neighbors to get to know one another. Although residents privately own their homes and do not pool their income, the decisions for running the community are made cooperatively. Cohousing communities may be multigenerational or exclusive to older adults where residents often share the cost of health aides or an on-site health care provider. 5. Continuing-care retirement communities (CCRCs). is a key attraction. Residents usually start out living independently in apartments and homes with all the social, recreational, and cultural activities of other retirement communities. As their health and abilities decline, residents can move into assisted living or transition to nursing-level care while remaining in the same community. 6. Assisted living. These communities help people while offering essential care and support services, including help with basic daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. The facilities also provide meals, activities, housekeeping, transportation, and some level of security. Most residences are apartments, but assisted living includes board-and-care homes and , which are single-family dwellings licensed to provide care. 7. Memory care. This special form of long-term care is designed for people with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. can be separate or part of assisted living facilities, continuing-care retirement communities and nursing homes. Safety features include alarmed doors, enclosed outdoor spaces and tracking bracelets, enabling residents to walk freely on the premises without harm. But quality of care can vary. 8. Nursing homes. These facilities provide for older adults who require it. Although doctors are on staff, nursing assistants provide most of the help with basic, daily activities, and nurses direct medical monitoring and care when necessary. Occupational, physical and speech therapists often support their work. among these facilities. This story, originally published Nov. 18, 2021, was updated to add information about housing options for older adults. Michelle Davis covers home, family and multicultural stories and is a features editor for AARP. Previously, she was the senior writer and social media strategist for EdWeek Market Brief and a senior correspondent at Education Week. 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