By Geri Rhoades
Over the past decade, I’ve observed my friends struggling with how to support their aging parents. Some have relocated them closer for easier care, while others have assisted them in staying in their homes and aging in place. The concept of aging in place, a term used to describe people living in their chosen residence as they grow older, began gaining traction in the 1970s and became more prominent in the 1980s and 1990s.
My husband and I did a bit of both. We moved to Florida to be close to my mother. He was retired, and I traveled for work so we could live anywhere while she remained in her home.
Like 86% of people over 65, according to an AARP study, my mother wanted to age in place. However, after suffering several strokes that led to dementia, she could no longer live independently. Consequently, we assisted her in moving from an independent living facility to dependent living and, finally, memory care before her passing.
It was a difficult journey for us all. After she passed away, we left Florida and moved to New Canaan a few years ago. To our surprise, this town is not only wonderful in general but also excellent for aging in place, partly due to organizations like Staying Put.
In 2006, residents of New Canaan who valued the community and its resources and were committed to living independently sought to introduce the aging in place concept locally. Staying Put in New Canaan was founded in 2008 to help seniors live confidently in their homes and actively participate in the community as they age.
Staying Put is regarded as the premiere suburban model of aging in place. They offer innovative programs and services, engage in strategic discussions on aging in place issues, and guide emerging villages.
Here’s how Staying Put operates: the organization is open to all New Canaan residents aged 65 and older. It is membership-based, with annual dues of $400 for individuals and $500 for couples. Executive Director Gina Blum states, “We never want dues to hinder people from joining, so we have a scholarship fund, which many local philanthropic organizations help to support, ensuring everyone can access our services.” The average age is 84, with a male/female ratio of 30% to 70%.
Membership dues cover about 20% of the cost of services. Fundraising covers the rest of over $400,000 needed for operating expenses. Staying Put conducts a town-wide annual appeal and an annual fundraiser soiree, both critical to their continued success.
As I approach my 65th birthday, aging in place has become increasingly important. In my short time living in New Canaan, I’ve formed cherished friendships, participated in weekly canasta and mahjong groups, and created meaningful connections. I would love to age in place here and am thankful for an organization that can assist me.
If you think it’s too early for me to start worrying about this, recent research indicated that while 86% of adults aged 65 and over want to age in place, only a small fraction of them have considered the changes they would need to make. Experts recommend we start planning well before it becomes necessary–ideally in our mid-50s or earlier.
Experts recommend considering five key pillars for aging in place:
1. Housing: Aging often requires home modifications for safety and accessibility. Essential adjustments include ground-floor bedrooms and bathrooms, grab bars, non-slip flooring, and ramps. Staying Put helps seniors with minor home repairs, technology assistance, and referrals to trusted service providers. Volunteers, including the New Canaan SLOBS, assist with seasonal tasks. Certified specialists evaluate homes for safe, independent living.
2. Health & Wellness: Beyond medical care, aging well includes a balanced diet, physical activity, cognitive health, and chronic condition management. Staying Put offers programs on these topics and collaborates with Meals on Wheels to support members.
3. Finance: Managing retirement income requires careful planning. Seniors must assess long-term care, home modifications, and financial resources. Staying Put connects members with experts and educates them on elder fraud risks.
4. Transportation: Mobility challenges make daily errands and appointments harder. Staying Put provided over 2,100 rides last year but needs more volunteer drivers. They ensure all drivers are well-qualified to assist seniors.
5. Social Interaction: Isolation poses significant health risks. Staying Put combats loneliness through social gatherings, excursions, and an open-door policy for drop-ins and conversation. Their March newsletter featured 11 planned activities.
I would have greatly benefited from a resource like Staying Put to help me navigate my mother’s last chapter. At the time, I was unaware of such an option and didn’t think of seeking it out. It would have provided both of us with more peace of mind. In a recent survey, 100% of Staying Put members indicated that Staying Put in New Canaan helps them live confidently at home and stay engaged in the community–an impressive result not commonly achieved by many organizations.
Staying Put is supported by a caring, professional staff and a network of local volunteers that provide highly personalized assistance to their members. Additionally, they collaborate with local organizations and resources to maximize member services and opportunities. To learn more about Staying Put, you can reach their staff at 203-966-7762, visit their downtown office at 58 Pine Street (entrance in the back), or explore their resources online at www.stayingputnc.org.
