Aging with dignity refers to the ability of a senior to be treated with respect, to have their wishes heard and acted upon, to be a part of their own care team, and to remain free and independent with a high quality of life. This does not mean they will not need help with various areas of their life, including daily living skills. What aging with dignity does reference is the way seniors are treated while receiving seniorcare support services.
Many seniors equate their home with freedom and independence. Not being allowed to age in place would be equated with a loss of self-worth and dignity. Aging in place is not always an easy option for seniors, however. Chronic illness, pain, loss of mobility, emotional and cognitive issues, and loss of transportation can seriously impede a …show more content…
The first step in this process is often evaluating the senior's home and making sure it is safe. For example, a fall risk analysis can identify areas that can be modified or improved to reduce the risk of senior falls – the number one cause of injury-related hospitalization and death in seniors. It is also wise to have ventilation checked, the chimney cleaned, the boiler serviced, and so forth. A list of safety concerns and checks is available at most seniorcare offices.
Since a high percentage of "aging with dignity" is based on a senior's ability to be free, independent, and make their own decisions, it is important that nobody lays siege to their home. Before installing all manner of safety devices, widening doors, removing rugs, redoing the lighting, or making other changes to a senior's residence, be sure that this is what they desire. While some seniors do not ask for help when they need it, other seniors do not want the help even when it is offered. Comfort Keepers seniorcare personnel are quite skilled at telling the