Question

What does ‘aging in place mean’? How does this relate to the ecological model of aging proposed by Lawton? In your discussion, include some ideas on how communities can help accommodate aging in place.

Answer 1

Aging in place

About 90% of seniors wish to live in their own home as long as possible. Most of them are emotionally attached with their home. They give much emotionl value than monetary value to their own house.

According to CDC, Aging in place means ability of the person to live in one's own home and community safely,independently and comfortably regardless of age,income or capability.

3 different types of aging in place are

1. Aging in place with out urgent needs-This catogery people live in their own home and they can manage by themselves

2. Aging in place with progressive condition based needs-In this category peolple needs some assistance based on their condition(eg: diabetes, hypertension).

3. Aging in place with traumtic change needs- This category includes people who experienced an abrupt or immediate change that requires adjustment in the present living situation.

Benefits of  Aging in place

a. Independence

b. Comfortable environment

c. Familiarity

d.Safety and security

Lawton's Ecological model of aging

Ecology is the study of the relationship between the living organism and their physical environment. Lawton's ecological model explains environmental pressure influences individual's degree of adaptation.The degree of adaptation vary from one individual to another.Change in the pressure levels affects he human beings differently.This model also describes person with negative affect shows maladaptive behaviour and person with positive affect shows adaptive behaviour.

Old age is the critical phase in individual's life. It is mainly influenced by physical environment.As per Lawton'secological model, environmental pressure influences individual's adaptation. If the environment where they live is comfortable and good , they will easily adapt to the particular situation.And they will demonstrate positive affect which results in adaptive behaviour.

How communities can help accommodate aging in place.

Communities plays an important role in seniors citizen's life. Communities can provide lot of support to the people.

Certain ways how communities can help in aging in place are as follows

-greater regulated traffics

-large number of benches for resting

-well maintained street lights

-accessible ramps around the community

-smaller neighbourhood blocks

-well maintained resting rooms

-recreational rooms ( news paper reading, chatting, playing)

-arranging alternative housing programms