Programs in Hampton Roads help seniors stay in their homes

Sep 19 '12

Research shows that a person lives longer and healthier by living at home. According to a poll conducted by AARP, about 75% of their membership hopes to stay in their home as they age.

In a recent study conducted by Cornell University, an estimated 100,000 people living in nursing homes could be living at home if the right support systems were in place.

Two years ago, Portsmouth resident Linda Darner started noticing that her husband, Leroy, had trouble remembering things.

Then he started losing his balance and falling. Finally, he began imagining things – events that never happened.

Leroy, Linda said, has dementia, compounded by brain injuries that he suffered as a college athlete more than 50 years ago.

Now, although Leroy, 74, has good days as well as not-so-good days, he needs constant supervision – and it has started to take a toll on his wife.

"It’s very hard seeing the person you love turn into someone you don’t know recognize," said Linda Darner, 72.

Linda is adamant about not institutionalizing Leroy while she is still able to care for him.

"I want to keep him at home as long as I can," she said.

Last spring, on a social worker’s recommendation, the Darners reached out to Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia, a private nonprofit that provides support services to seniors so that they can remain in their own homes as an alternative to nursing home care.

Linda needed someone to help Leroy dress and keep him company while he eats, watches TV and takes walks – someone to just spend time with Leroy to make sure he’s safe while Linda tends to their house and runs errands.

More of the story here

Here are some interesting cost comparisons for the Hampton Roads region:

• Average age and disability related home modification cost = $12,000

• Average annual cost for assisted living = $42,000

• Average annual cost for skilled nursing facility = $72,996

Clearly there are some tangible benefits for home improvements as we age, including: preventing falls, enhancing safety, more comfort and convenience, peace of mind and significant cost savings over institutional care.

The following are some good sources for age related home modification ideas and community services that can help you:

Historic Triangle Senior Center whose mission is to to enrich the lives of older adults through intellectual stimulation, wellness programs, and social opportunities.

Aging in Your Own Space-Use these remodeling ideas now to live

independently later http://www.aarp.org/home-garden/housing/info-01-2011/aging_in_your_own_space.html

An informative discussion on right-sizing your home, accessible bathrooms, doorway width, kitchen conveniences, safety modifications and outside accessibility to the home.

Medical Home Outfitters is a new company in Williamsburg that provides home assessments, solutions and installation services, including: grab bars, door widening, ramps/lifts, barrier free showers, and design/construction for homes meeting ADA compliant space. Their web site is www.medicalhomeoutfitters.com .

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