As the aging population grows, the question of optimal living arrangements for older adults becomes increasingly critical. Recent research suggests that seniors residing in specialized housing communities may enjoy better health outcomes compared to those living independently at home. This finding challenges the commonly held belief that maintaining an independent living situation is always the best option for seniors’ health and well-being.
Improved Health in Senior Housing
A study conducted by researchers with NORC at the University of Chicago, funded by a grant from the National Investment Center (NIC) for Seniors Housing & Care, has shed new light on the health benefits of senior housing. The research tracked common health problems among seniors, comparing those who moved into senior housing communities in 2017 with their peers who continued living in their own homes.
The findings were significant: seniors in housing communities were less likely to require hospitalization for a variety of conditions, including injuries, hip fractures, wounds, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), dehydration, and urinary tract infections. This suggests that the environment and care available in senior housing can play a critical role in preventing serious health issues.
A Focus on Wellness and Care
Ray Braun, CEO and president of NIC, emphasized that senior housing residences offer a center for wellness and healthy aging. “Senior housing operators effectively manage residents’ health and lower adverse patient safety events, particularly when older adults move in and are more vulnerable,” explained Lisa McCracken, NIC’s head of research & analytics. However, she noted that while these settings help reduce many negative health events, residents were more likely to visit an emergency room, likely due to regulatory requirements or an abundance of caution in situations like falls.
Health Care Accessibility and Specialized Care
One of the key advantages of senior housing is the accessibility of specialized medical care. Residents often receive more frequent care from specialty providers such as podiatrists, cardiologists, and psychiatrists, which can significantly improve their quality of life and medical outcomes. Moreover, the study indicated that residents in senior housing communities tend to be less frail after their transition, suggesting that the supportive environment contributes to better physical health.
Cost Savings and Future Research
The implications of these findings are not only significant for the health and wellness of seniors but also for the broader healthcare system. The NIC plans to support further research to estimate the potential cost savings to Medicare provided by senior housing. Additionally, this research will aim to identify best practices from top senior housing communities that could be implemented more widely to enhance the care provided in these settings.
The Growing Role of Senior Housing
As more older adults consider their long-term living arrangements, senior housing communities may become an increasingly attractive option. “With thousands of aging older adults expected to move into senior housing in the near future, there is a substantial opportunity for senior housing to partner with healthcare payers and providers to improve the lives of older adults,” Braun stated. This partnership could be pivotal in reshaping how health care is delivered to aging populations, ensuring that more seniors can enjoy a high quality of life in environments that cater specifically to their health needs.
Conclusion
The recent study underscores the potential health benefits of senior housing communities and challenges the notion that living at home is always the best option for older adults. With better management of health conditions and access to specialized care, seniors in these communities are finding themselves better positioned to enjoy their golden years with robust health. As society continues to evolve in its understanding and resources for senior living, these insights could help shape policies and personal decisions that lead to healthier, happier lives for our elderly population.
