I always say that in aging, it is best to be prepared than just cross the bridge when you get there. The problem with “crossing the bridge when you get there” is that there might be no bridge to cross at all, meaning it may be too late for you to make a decision at all and of course, we don’t want that to happen.

If you ask me to choose between aging in place or joining an assisted community when my time comes, I would rather be in an assisted community, all convenient and surrounded with friends than to burden someone to live with me at my place. But then again, that is just me.

I understand it is not always easy to choose between the two. 3 out of 5 of my friends will choose aging in place, if they can help it, just because they are most comfortable in their house and they would know their way around blindfolded. What they don’t know is that their place might need a little renovation to suit their needs, sooner or later, which may more or less cost the same as transferring to an assisted living facility. Of course, aging in place has its own pros and cons, and for those of you who are thinking of growing old and gray at your own home, here are some nuggets for your thoughts to think over:

* You have to make a decision as early as possible. For me, that is as soon as you hit your 60th birthday. Why? This age is usually the time when your illnesses, age-related or otherwise, will start manifesting, if they haven’t yet. Of course, you wouldn’t want to be caught in between renovating your house and nursing a disability, would you?
* Plan changes early on. While you still can, is a more suitable description. You should have a foresight of what you might need in the future, fixtures and all. There are online shops which specialize with seniors/older adults needs that you might want to check out. Your local hardware stores may also have an idea or two to share.
* Anticipate your needs.  You, of all people, should know what conditions of your body are most likely to worsen overtime. Ask your doctor of possible outcomes of your condition and discuss with them your decision of aging in place. It might also be good to ask if it is possible for you to do so.
* Admit that at some point, you’ll need help. Look for agencies and organizations which can help you find the right person for you to work with especially if you don’t have relatives living nearby.

The golden rule is plan ahead and seek help. Asking for help is never bad and there’s nothing embarrassing in it too. If you would like to succeed in making your decision possible, you will need all the help you can get.