Frequently Asked Questions

What is Aging in Place?


Aging in place is the ability to live in one’s own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level, according to the CDC.

Aging in place allows older adults to maintain their independence and live in a home that is familiar. It also lets them stay in communities that they have often been a part of for years. In addition, the cost of staying in one’s home is often (but not always) less costly than living in a senior living community or skilled nursing facility. Determining if aging in place is right for you or your loved one is a big decision.

How do I evaluate if aging in place is right for me, or a loved one?

Deciding on what works for you or a loved one’s living situation can be challenging, and there is no one size fits all solution. Therefore, you’ll need to balance out considerations like personal preference, physical and mental capabilities, the condition of the home, and more in order to decide what is the best environment for that individual.

While there are a number of issues to think about when determining the best place for an older adult to live, they essentially boil down to three factors, which are:

1. Person
2. Place
3. Social support

What is AgeWise Colorado?

AgeWise Colorado is a free, easy-to-use hub for all things related to aging in place for you or your loved one. Our approach is twofold: First, we provide reliable information about issues affecting older adults who are aging in place. Second, we connect you to trusted resources for products and services. 

We do this by only including vetted resources, called Participating Providers, who have met our strict criteria to be included on our site.  We then match up our locally based Participating Providers with communities across the state. In the near future, we will also have knowledgeable staff you can speak with for more information.  

What is AgeWise Colorado’s Vetting Process for its Participating Providers?

AgeWise Colorado was created specifically with older adults and their loved ones in mind. We know how hard it can be when you’re searching for products and services to help older adults stay in their homes. As a non-profit organization, we’re committed to helping you find what is needed quickly and easily, which is why we vet all of our Participating Providers that are listed on our website. Once an organization becomes a Participating Provider, they will have an annual check-up to ensure they continue to meet our rigorous standards. 

What is the Difference Between Formal and Informal Caregiving?

There are two main types of care for seniors who are aging in place and need help in caring for themselves. The first is formal, which means that a paid professional takes care of the older adult. The second type is an informal caregiver, which covers many of the same responsibilities and, in many instances, more than a formal caregiver but is not paid for their caregiving duties. The typical informal caregiver for seniors is a family member, or someone in the older adult’s close social network, or in some cases a roommate.

Can people get paid to take care of a family member?

There are certain situations where an informal caregiver who is a family member can get paid for their work around caregiving. Payment may come from a long-term care insurance policy or the parent. However, in order to qualify the payment must be handled through an in-home care company that hires the family member as the caregiver.  

How can seniors get food delivered?  What services are available?

A big part of any aging in place plan needs to address how food will be provided if the older adult is no longer able to secure food for themselves. There are many options for seniors to get groceries and meals delivered right to their homes. 

What Transportation Options Do Seniors Have If They Cannot Drive?

Many resources and affordable transportation options are available so older adults can age in place while maintaining independence, health, and connection to the community. 

When you begin your search for options, consider eligibility, accessibility, reliability, and affordability to make a confident decision about which options are best for you and your loved one. Then evaluate your transportation options that are available locally.

Is a Medical Alert System Worth Considering?  

For older adults living alone, a Personal Emergency Response System (PERS), also called Medical Alert System and Medical Emergency Response System can be a lifeline, ensuring they get help right away in the event of a fall or another medical emergency. 

PERS typically comes in the form of a lightweight pendant or wristband so that it can easily be worn all the time, unlike your cell phone, which you may leave on a table or nightstand. With some PERS, one must press a button to contact emergency services, while other systems automatically activate when a fall is detected. There are some considerations to keep in mind when choosing a PERS.

How to find the right roommate for older adults 

Roommates can share expenses, keep an eye out for each other, reduce the risk of loneliness and isolation, and help each other with house maintenance. However, it’s important to do the leg work to ensure you find the right fit. This effort includes checking references and conducting a comprehensive interview with each potential roommate. There are also roommate services available to older adults.