At 87, needing some help doesn’t automatically mean you need to move into a care home. The safest choice depends on how much assistance you need and whether your home can be made safe. The National Institute on Aging notes several home- and community-based options. NIA+1
Alternatives worth considering
- In-home caregiver — A paid aide can come for a few hours a day to help with bathing, dressing, meals, housekeeping, medication reminders, or mobility.
- Family or trusted-neighbor support — Several people can share small responsibilities instead of one person becoming the full-time caregiver.
- Live-in caregiver or family member — If you need substantial daily assistance but want to remain at home, someone may be able to live with you.
- Adult day services — You can remain at home while spending part of the day somewhere with supervision, meals, activities, and personal care.
- Home modifications — Grab bars, better lighting, removing loose rugs, a walk-in shower, railings, and other changes can make staying home substantially safer. NIA
- Meal and transportation services — Having food delivered and arranging rides to appointments can solve two major problems without requiring residential care.
- Respite care — If family members help you, short-term professional care can give them regular breaks and make the arrangement more sustainable. NIA
- Assisted living — This can be a middle ground when you need more support than home care can provide but don’t require 24-hour skilled nursing.
One important safety question
Before deciding, ask: “What exactly can I no longer do safely by myself?” Bathing? Getting to the toilet at night? Preparing food? Taking medication correctly? Getting up after a fall?
A doctor, occupational therapist, or geriatric-care professional can help assess those needs and determine whether home support is realistic. If you are falling frequently, becoming confused, unable to manage medications, or unable to summon help during an emergency, living alone may no longer be safe even with a few modifications.
Most importantly, don’t wait for a crisis to make the decision. Planning while you’re still able to express your preferences gives you much more control over where and how you live. NIA
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