Aging in Place: What to Know, What to Ask, and How to Plan for Your Loved One’s Future

When you imagine your loved one’s future, does it include the home they’ve always known?You’re not alone.

Many older adults have strong feelings about staying in their homes as they age. And it makes sense: Home represents familiarity, freedom, comfort, and countless memories. But aging in place doesn’t happen on its own. It takes thoughtful planning, honest conversations, and a realistic look at what’s needed to stay safe and supported.

If you’re starting to explore options for a parent, spouse, or loved one, here’s what you need to know about aging in place—and how to decide if it’s the right fit.

What Does “Aging in Place” Really Mean?

Aging in place means continuing to live at home, rather than moving to a senior community or facility, while still having the support and resources needed to live safely and well.

The truth: Aging in place isn’t a “do nothing” decision.

It’s a choice that works best with a plan. Needs change over time. An unexpected crisis can take away the ability to choose where and how to age.

5 Key Questions to Consider

If you or your loved one are leaning toward staying at home, start by asking these five questions:

1. Is the home safe and accessible?

• Can your loved one move around the home comfortably and safely?

• Are there stairs, narrow hallways, or bathrooms that are hard to use?

• Will you need to add grab bars, ramps, or other home modifications?

Locally, Milestone Senior Services does this work, both through grants and fees-for-service.

2. What support systems are in place?

• Who will help with daily tasks like meals, bathing, medications, and errands?

• Are family members nearby and available—or will you need outside help?

• Can in-home care meet current (and future) needs?

  
  

3. What services are available in the community?

• Are there reliable in-home care agencies?

• Is there transportation to appointments or social activities?

• Could adult day programs or meal deliveries offer extra support?

  
  

4. Can we afford it?

• What’s the cost of in-home care, transportation, or home modifications?

• Is the home fully paid off, or are there ongoing mortgage or repair costs?

• Are there benefits (like Veterans Aid & Attendance or Medicaid waivers) that can help?

Check out my video about how to plan for paying for senior living here.

5. How is their medical and cognitive health?

• Is your loved one managing chronic conditions or showing signs of cognitive decline?

• Do they need reminders for medication, or have they gotten lost or confused recently?

• Will it still be safe to live at home six months—or a year—from now?

When Aging in Place Might Not Be the Best Option

Sometimes, despite everyone’s best hopes, staying at home may no longer be the safest or most sustainable option. Some signs it might be time to consider a move:

• Frequent falls or medical emergencies

• Increasing memory loss or confusion

• Caregiver burnout

• Rising costs of in-home care

• Social isolation or loneliness

Choosing to explore other options isn’t a failure. It’s an act of love—and there are compassionate, beautiful communities designed to offer just the right amount of care.

You Don’t Have to Figure It Out Alone

Families often call me when things start to feel uncertain:

• “We’re trying to keep Mom at home, but we’re not sure it’s working.”

• “Dad says he doesn’t want to move, but he’s fallen twice in the past month.”

• “My sister and I are overwhelmed and not sure what support is even out there.”

Whether you’re just starting to plan or already feeling stretched thin, I’m here to help.

As a Senior Living Family Advocate, I guide families through options for aging in place and senior living communities. I don’t work for any facility or company—I work for you.

Together, we can talk through your loved one’s needs, explore resources, and create a plan that honors their wishes while keeping everyone safe and supported.

Ready to Explore Next Steps?

Let’s talk. I offer free phone consultations and house calls, so we can look at the big picture—together. 📲 Call or text me at (269) 207-1720💻 Or email charris@seniorlivingfamilyadvocate.com to get started.

You don’t have to have all the answers right now. But you can take the first step toward clarity and peace of mind.