Most older adults want to stay in their own homes as they age — it’s familiar, comforting, and meaningful.
But aging in place isn’t just about preference; it’s also about quality of life. Yet that concept gets too little attention.
A 2017 review in Quality of Life Research looked at global studies on older adults aging in place. The findings? Despite its popularity, very few assessments measure whether people are truly thriving in their homes.
Here’s What the Research Revealed:
- Assessment is rare. Despite policies promoting home-based living, most programs don’t evaluate if the result is positive for the person.
- No commonly accepted definition. Researchers can’t agree on what “quality of life” includes. Physical health? Social connection? Mental well-being?
- Personal experience varies. For some, home is where independence thrives. While others struggle alone, fall risk rises, and isolation sets in.
This might be why support systems feel hit-or-miss.
Just being at home isn’t enough. What matters is how, where, and why someone lives there.
Supporting Aging in Place the Right Way
When aging in place works well, it’s because the right supports are quietly working in the background — creating stability without taking away independence. That might look like:
- A better way to notice changes before they become crises
- Gentle check-ins that don’t feel like surveillance
- Technology that respects privacy and doesn’t require constant input
- A sense of presence and peace of mind, even from far away
In many ways, what matters most isn’t where someone lives, but how well they’re supported to live there safely, confidently, and with dignity.
As more families explore ways to offer that kind of care, without burnout, new tools are emerging that blend health, home, and human connection.
The question isn’t whether aging in place is possible.
It’s whether we’re building the kinds of environments and systems that make it sustainable.
Research Reference
Vanleerberghe P, De Witte N, Claes C, Schalock RL, Verte D.
The quality of life of older people aging in place: a literature review.
Qual Life Res. 2017 Nov;26(11):2899–907.
Feeling Burnt Out? You’re Not Alone. Support Is Here.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or uncertain where to turn, here are some trusted Canadian resources made specifically for caregivers:
- Family Caregivers of British Columbia (FCBC)
Coaching, support groups, and caregiver wellness resources. - HealthLink BC
Information and referral to caregiver-specific services in your province. - Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)
Guidance for managing stress, anxiety, and depression, plus access to local support.
You don’t need to do this alone — and you shouldn’t have to.
