There are plenty of care options available for seniors, but many people wish to maintain their independence for as long as possible. Having control of your own life during old age is important because it helps improve mental health and fights off many medical conditions. Staying independent doesn’t mean saying no to help – it simply means taking control of your daily life. If you’re trying to keep hold of your independence for as long as possible, continue reading this article for six tips.
There’s no denying that your body changes during old age, but it doesn’t need to spell the end of independence. Instead, you can make upgrades to your home to make getting around much easier. For example, you can have handrails installed in your bathroom and entrance halls. Alternatively, if you struggle to get up the stairs, you can have a lift installed to take the strain away.
Making physical changes and upgrades to your home is only the start. You need to navigate your home safely, which means removing any slip and trip hazards by tidying away the clutter. Additionally, if you have laminate or another slippery flooring, we recommend having carpets installed or using rugs.
Technology has reached new heights of innovation, and it can now help you complete daily tasks. For example, there are now voice-activated devices for turning on lights, locking doors, and monitoring your energy usage. Additionally, thanks to smart assistant devices like Alexa, you can easily complete your shopping, make phone calls, and play music with voice commands.
Just because our bodies begin to ache and we feel weaker during old age, it doesn’t mean physical exercise has to go out of the window. There are plenty of low-impact exercises that will nurture a healthy mind and body. For example, you can head to the local swimming pool, go for a walk, or try cycling.
Keeping fit is only half the puzzle; it’s important to keep your mind engaged by retaining social connections. Force yourself to go out into the world, whether you’re walking to the local shop or having coffee with a loved one. If there are days when you don’t feel like moving, ask your loved ones to come and visit you – and stand outside for some much-needed fresh air.
Independent living is great, but you need to understand when it’s time to ask for support. If you’re struggling with simple tasks but you’re happy in your home, consider having home-based carers. However, if you’re struggling to keep up with housework and take care of yourself, we recommend that you consider Princeton New Jersey assisted living facilities.
The tactics outlined above can help you stay independent for many years. However, there may come a time when you need to accept help, which doesn’t show any form of weakness. Remember, just because you’re accepting care, doesn’t mean you can’t have some control over your life.
