Aging in place is a term with diverse meanings depending on who is defining it. While organizations like the CDC provide official definitions, the concept is also shaped by national health bodies, advocacy groups, and, significantly, the older adults and their families experiencing it. This range of perspectives influences policy, funding, and personal care plans.
The government and health organization perspective
Official definitions from government and health organizations focus on providing a framework for policy, funding, and programs, taking a broad societal view that prioritizes safety, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness.
Centers for Control and Prevention (CDC)
The CDC offers a definition of aging in place as living safely, independently, and comfortably in one's home and community. You can find the full definition on the {Link: Harvard Health website https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/aging-in-place-assessing-your-community}.
World Health Organization (WHO)
The WHO views aging in place within its concept of "healthy aging," which involves maintaining functional ability for well-being in older age. The WHO emphasizes the interplay between an individual's capacities and their environment, seeing aging in place as being supported by the community and surroundings.
Administration for Community Living (ACL)
The U.S. Administration for Community Living (ACL) promotes the ability of older adults to live where they choose and participate in their communities. Through a national network, the ACL funds services like meals, transportation, and caregiver support, translating the governmental definition into practical support.
The individual and family perspective
For many, aging in place is a personal choice driven by a desire for familiarity, independence, and comfort, focusing on maintaining a desired quality of life.
AARP's focus on independence
AARP's surveys consistently show that a large majority of adults over 50 prefer to remain in their homes. This perspective highlights the emotional and psychological benefits of staying in familiar surroundings close to support systems, emphasizing independence and control.
The personal definition
Individuals and their families ultimately define what aging in place means for them, a definition that can change with health, finances, and support. This might mean staying in a longtime home or moving to a more accessible residence within the community. For families, it involves creating a flexible support network.
A comparison of perspectives
| Aspect | Government & Health Organizations | Individuals & Families |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Motivation | Public policy, cost-effectiveness, and population health management. | Personal comfort, independence, familiarity, and emotional connection to home. |
| Focus | Systems-level infrastructure, public services, funding, and broad accessibility goals. | Home environment, immediate support network, financial feasibility, and personalized care. |
| Definition of "Place" | Broadly, the community or living environment, not limited to a specific house. | Often the lifelong family home, but can also mean relocating within a familiar neighborhood. |
| Key Outcome | Successful implementation of services that delay institutionalization. | Maintaining a desired lifestyle and retaining autonomy for as long as possible. |
| Involvement | Sets standards, funds programs, and creates legislation (e.g., Older Americans Act). | Actively makes decisions, plans for modifications, and coordinates care with family or hired help. |
The dynamic and collaborative definition
A complete understanding of aging in place integrates these different perspectives. Successful aging in place is a joint effort involving individuals planning ahead, families offering support, and governments ensuring policies and resources facilitate independent living.
Communities are also playing a larger role with initiatives like the WHO's "Age-Friendly Cities" and AARP's "Livable Communities". This adaptability allows aging in place to meet the diverse needs of a growing older population.
Conclusion
While organizations like the CDC, WHO, and AARP offer significant definitions, the meaning of "aging in place" is a blend of large-scale policy and individual preference. It can be a policy objective or a personal goal to stay in a cherished home. The most relevant definition is the one an individual creates for themselves, considering resources, family support, and changing needs.
To learn more about the broader policy context, visit the Administration for Community Living website.
