If you have an elderly parent(s), you may have concerns about their ability to care for themselves, but they may be more independent than you think. Some older adults are capable of aging at home or at a senior living apartment with minimal need for additional care. To determine if your parent can age in place, consider the checklist below.

How to Know If Your Parent Can Age in Place

1. Cognitive Awareness Isn't an Issue

Aging at home requires a high level of awareness because people will need to remember important tasks and dates, such as when to take their medication and where certain items are stored in the house. Although parents may have a forgetful moment or two, if they consistently retain information, they can live alone.

2. They Can Move Around

Aging adults living in senior living apartments will need to move around to take care of chores, like housework or preparing meals. Though some seniors have difficulty with balance and mobility, this is not always the case. If your parents can walk and stand without pain or discomfort, they will likely be OK aging at home. It also helps if they're still physically active and like to exercise or take walks, as everyday movement supports their muscles and flexibility.

3. They Take Care of Themselves

Personal hygiene helps people look and feel their best. It also eliminates bacteria from the body that could lead to illness. Seniors who age at home should be able to bathe and groom themselves daily and keep a generally neat appearance. They should also be able to launder their clothes and linens regularly.

If your parent is 62 or older and interested in a senior living apartment, consider Pohulani Elderly LLC, in Honolulu, HI. This community features 263 studios and one-bedroom apartment homes that come with many amenities, including emergency call systems in every room and on-site parking. The building is near local entertainment and shopping venues, so your aging loved one will have access to various activities near their home. Get more information about their amenities online, or call (808) 744-6063 to apply.