Remember when you were a kid and you thought 20 was old? Then, in your teens, you thought 30 was over the hill? As we age and society redefines what old is, attitudes toward age evolve. I’ve known 90-year-olds—my own father, for example—whose energy, enthusiasm, and memory put me to shame.
As our current generation ages, we are redefining what it means to be old. Politics aside, the fact that we have presidential candidates in their 80th decade would have been unheard of a few decades ago. Think of it: Mick Jagger is still performing—rocking audiences at age 80.
The evolution in attitudes toward aging also influences what people want and need. Aging in place isn’t just a preference—it’s becoming an entrenched way of life. A record 11,000 Americans turn 65 every day, leading to the phrase Silver Tsunami. Plus, by 2030, one out of five U.S. residents will be older than 65, and by 2040, 70 million of us will be over 65. Studies show the vast majority—close to 80%—want to age in the location of their choosing.
Making Our Own Choices
How are we going to meet this demand? What impact will it have on society? How will we help this demographic—and eventually ourselves—age with dignity and grace?
It may be a lofty goal, yet it’s also more than attainable. While we want to stay in the setting of our choice, whether it’s a home, senior living community, or other location that meets our needs, we don’t want to burden our loved ones. However, we also recognize that we or our loved ones will need assistance. We can do a lot, but not all by ourselves as we age. And, of course, if we suffer from ill health, chronic illness, or memory lapses, the need for help is even greater.
Avenues Home Care
One reason my colleagues and I are building Avenues Home Care™ is the recognition that we need to find better ways and choices to care for people who choose to age in place. We are striving to be a different kind of home care company — one focused on providing local support through our best-in-class agencies.
We are growing in several major areas throughout the South, including Dallas, San Antonio, Nashville, Northeast TN, Chattanooga, and NW Georgia. We offer everything from help with activities of daily living to medication reminders to memory and transition care. Need help after a hospital or nursing home stay? Have an elderly parent who is having memory troubles? Are you going on a long trip and want a companion? Turn to us.
We provide support to older people, adults with disabilities or injuries, and veterans and focus our services on what is needed most in the families we serve. Some of our local agencies offer additional support, such as private nursing and rehabilitation services.
Your Journey, Our Care
If you are part of the Silver Tsunami, which I am approaching, it’s time to plan for what’s next for yourself and aging parents or loved ones. Now is the time to sit down and ask yourself what’s important, what you need, and what will help you all live your best lives. How are you going to make that happen?
Remember, you aren’t alone in the quest to age gracefully. Look for people (notice I didn’t say a business—it’s people that will matter) who can help. Our people know the towns you live in—they live and work there and can help with resources and provide a range of needed services.
Their goal and passion are to bring care to individuals and peace to family members. Our company motto is Your Journey, Our Care. That means we recognize that every person’s path to aging will be unique—our goal is to provide the care and support needed to get you there.
In the coming months, I’ll write more on aging in place and share thoughts and observations to serve our communities better. Please feel free to reach out with questions and comments. I look forward to connecting.
Doug Markham, CEO, Avenues Home Care