A question commonly asked by and of family members reaching their senior years is whether or not to continue living independently at home. For some, it is undoubtedly the best option to move to assisted living. However, for those who do not have the desire or financial support to leave their homes, this may not be possible.

Having the right information is essential to making an informed decision on this point. A recent addition to FDRC’s Useful Links to Resources for elders and their loved ones is Aginginplace.org: a resource hub filled with expert advice and useful guides about the specific aspects of aging at home.

Although it is an American based organisation, the resources provided contain good general advice that is applicable to New Zealand living. In particular, Aging in Place provides detailed guides as to how best to approach home modifications, mobility products, choice of caregiving, managing finances, transportation options, and maintaining health. In terms of managing finances, there is information provided on insurance, government assistance and other financial resources. There are also useful guides on how to take advantage of the latest innovations and technology gadgets to improve life at home.

The question of whether to remain at home can create tension for some families where there might be disagreement over the value of independence over assistance. This information is therefore invaluable to elders and their loved ones who are asking the question of whether staying at home is appropriate, as it may provide solutions to the issues causing such tension. By providing families with the resources to make better decisions, Ageing in Place strives to help elders and their loved ones plan and live a comfortable, happy life as they age.

Where this question does begin to cause tension, FDRC’s specialised Elder Mediation service can help families work through this conflict and make a plan for the future that is satisfactory for all parties. Such situations are complex, often involving multiple generations and raising a mix of legal, financial, and/or medical issues, together with familial, social, and/or spiritual/religious concerns. For this reason the Elder Mediation service provided by FDRC is specifically targeted at and tailored for disputes involving a senior family member. FDRC is proud to work with Gerard Sullivan, the first mediator in New Zealand to achieve the Elder Mediation International Network (EMIN) Elder Mediation Certification Program.

The desire to age in place can become a reality with the right information and support. The wealth of information provided by AginginPlace.org can help seniors and their loved ones navigate the often-confusing aspects of preparing the house, finances, body and mind, and give them the information they need to age within the comfort of their own home.

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