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I talk a lot about my girls growing up but I never really think about them growing old. It is inevitable obviously and I can't imagine not being here to share in their own children and grandchildren. Age comes to us all and with my own Grandmother turning 89 next month and a good friend's mother in law going into a home, being conscious of the care available is something I am becoming more aware of.

In-home care

It is interesting to learn that huge changes are arising for anyone involved with in-home care. Such changes are in place due to various causes, including altering population demographics, new healthcare regulations and the ever-changing and uncertain economic times.

With over 10,000 people turning 65 everyday (this is an amazing figure), more and more are choosing to retire. New trends indicate that a large proportion of the elderly population are choosing to indulge in assisted living as opposed to retiring in a home. 

Due to this factor alone, more expertise is being applied to this area, meaning there is now a growing need for individuals to be trained on this.

Independence 

Instead of migrating to a home by the sea, elderly retirees are choosing to live out their later years in thriving cities, often in assisted living accommodation. Thankfully, due to demand, a number of retirement villages are popping up left, right and centre. Many of these homes boast the likes of in-house help, curved stairlifts and on-site communities. Living in such accommodation allows the older generation to worry less about maintenance responsibilities and more about living life to the full.

It’s also a great option for those who wish to remain independent whilst having access to help when they need it. This is also a great way to free up a little collateral, which can then be put towards the likes of travel, hobbies and lifestyle changes. (My Grandmother has more holidays than anyone I know!!)

Alternative therapies 

It’s no secret that people are living longer in this day and age and this is possible due to an ever-expanding list of alternative therapies. From yoga to video games to green living, seniors are now embracing a variety of diverse therapies as opposed to more traditional retirement rules. I am a huge fan of Reiki and looking after both the mind and the body is more important than ever, especially for seniors.

Accepting new technologies is certainly one way to keep the mind active, whilst indulging in various workout classes is a great way for the elderly to stay in shape whilst allowing retirees to meet new people, learn new skills and make new friends. We bought my Grandmother a tablet last year, so that she could email us and relatives in Austrailia but a year on, she is not quite confident with it so a class would be great for her.

Looking further afield

A number of elderly individuals are now looking to retire in homes further afield. The reason for this – a less costly service that still provides residents with a high quality of living.  

This is a change set to become even more apparent in 2014, especially with the way in which the economic climate stands. Certain venues abroad are able to cater to those with family members who suffer from the likes of Alzheimer’s and dementia, allowing them with access to the professional care they deserve. 

Age comes to us all but for me, I just hope that it also brings wisdom (!!) and a retirement home by the sea!

Disclaimer : This post is brought to you in association with Stannah Stairlifts but all elderly relatives with email troubles are our own!