December 2015
Last year we wrote about the benefits and conveniences of condo living as one ages. In this follow-up article we focus on age related problems in condo buildings, how to recognize them and types of assistance available.
Statistics Canada estimates that 15.3% of Canadians are at least 65 years of age. Over 90% of older adults prefer to live independently or with assistance at home.
Condo living allows this to happen. Some adults downsize their home after their children have left or upon retirement. This helps them to keep costs under control and reduce the maintenance workload of home ownership.
What this means is that more seniors are choosing to spend their senior years enjoying condo living.
This does not prevent a decline in physical abilities or cognitive functioning.
Some believe condo living is an alternative to a retirement home or facility that provides care. This creates problems for the individual and the condo community. Older adults are at greater risk of depression as friends pass away, their physical abilities decline and medical problems increase. They can become lonely. Depression is often not recognized as these people can become isolated.
Dementia is one of the more common and growing mental health problems. It can affect an individual’s memory, behaviour and actions. They can wander into other suites, be overly aggressive or be disruptive to other condo residents. They may develop habits such as hoarding which can become a safety or sanitation issue for a condo community.
Condo neighbours, management and employees are not typically equipped with the knowledge and skills to deal with age related health problems. Condo rules are typically ineffective at dealing with such problems.
Homecare providers, such as Bayshore Home Health (416-927-7850) which works with condo residents and buildings, are available to provide assistance as one gets older. Homecare providers can offer companionship, as well as assist with daily activities such as cooking, cleaning, grocery shopping and laundry.
For those unable to manage at home, retirement homes can provide more extensive care and services than is available in a home setting.
Government assistance for homecare services may be available through the Community Care Access Centre – CCAC.
