Benefits of Aging in Place with Home-Based Retirement Care

Retirement communities are evolving to help retirees stay at home longer. These options provide structured support and help manage the rising costs of aging.

Joan Brasier and Paul Wilczynski found a way to remain in their Asheville, N.C., home. They joined an ‘at home’ program linked to a local continuing care retirement community. This setup offers them the peace of mind of having a facility to move into if needed.

Access to the front door of Joan Brasier’s ranch house is step-free, making it ideal for aging in place. With remodeling that includes an updated primary bathroom and easy-to-clean surfaces, Brasier and her husband plan to stay put for now.

While they want to travel, concerns about future care costs persist. Even though their finances suggest they can afford it, they are cautious.

The couple embraced a lesser-known retirement care model that is becoming more popular. ‘Continuing care at home’ combines retirement community expertise with at-home support. Individuals in these programs can transition to a facility if required, ensuring predictable costs.

A 2024 AARP survey found 75% of American adults want to ‘age in place.’ Only 29% of older adults see the traditional continuing care model as likely. Traditional models involve moving, significant fees, and on-site living with care level transitions.

The at-home model has existed in a few communities for decades. It has developed a sufficient track record for broader adoption in the long-term-care industry.

Currently, 37 of the nation’s 1,911 continuing care retirement communities offer this option, as reported by LeadingAge. This number has increased from 26 communities a decade ago. Interest is growing, shown by more participation in related conferences.

Joan Brasier, 74, and Paul Wilczynski, 78, are part of Givens Choice. This program, run by Givens Communities in western North Carolina, provides regular health check-ins and a care manager. The care manager offers coaching and assurance of long-term care in a facility, at a set price.