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TO YOUR HEALTH SiG MT 124 During these unusual times, families are more concerned than ever about being separated from their loved ones. We hope our seniors can remain independent and at home for as long as possible. Benefis Community Care (formerly Benefis Spectrum Medical) offers a variety of products and services that make it safe and practical for aging Montanans to remain independent and live comfortably at home. • How can people plan to age in place? Being prepared is the key to being able to stay at home as we age. Falls become an increasingly important concern – one-third of people over 65 fall each year, and half of those who survive falling never regain their independence. Home safety is paramount, so consider installing safety equipment such as grab bars for the shower, purchasing mobility aids, and removing trip hazards from your home. Simple things like shower chairs or a toilet safety frame can make the difference in preventing falls. Additionally, long-term care insurance is vital in allowing people the ability to remain in their own homes. With long-term care insurance, around 7.6 million individuals are currently receiving care in their homes. By contrast, there are just over 1.8 million individuals receiving care in long-term care facilities. • What support is available to help people age at home? ere are several support options to help you remain at home, including but not limited to: medical equipment such as hospital beds, CPAP machines, and personal emergency response systems; meal delivery services; medical transportation; home maintenance and repairs; estate planning; long-term care insurance; in-home private pay and respite services; licensed home healthcare; home medical equipment; remote patient monitoring; and medication reminders. • How do you anticipate the needs of your customers? For years, Benefis Community Care has been helping people in the community with their home medical needs. We have taken care of generations of families and work with customers every day who tell us about their mother, brother, or cousin who received some type of service or equipment from us. at is something we cherish, and we look forward to continuing our role in helping our community members age in their homes. We also pay aention to the latest studies. According to one recent study from the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, the most common concerns about aging include losing independence with age (67%), being alone without family or friends around (60%), and having social needs met (57%). Here's the one that really stands out to us: According to the AARP, nearly 90% of older adults want to age in place in their own homes and maintain independence. At Community Care, we do everything we can to help our patients realize that goal. To learn more about how you can safely age in place, visit with your primary care provider to discuss your needs. For more information about Benefis Community Care and our available services, visit us at Benefis.org/CommunityCare, stop by our home medical equipment store at 1411 9th St. S. in Great Falls, or call (406) 771-6400. You Can Age Well at Home. Here's How. TEXT BY BENEFIS HEALTH SYSTEM