When people think about getting older, the first thing that often comes to mind is a loss of independence. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to stay independent as you age. Whether you’re a CDPAP caregiver for an aging loved one or simply trying to plan for your future, you may benefit from these tips on how to maintain your independence as you age.
Why Does Independence Matter?
Independence is vital for senior health and overall well-being. It helps seniors to feel connected, empowered, and in control of their lives. Maintaining independence can help reduce feelings of isolation, maintain social networks, and contribute to better physical and mental health.
Studies show that boosting senior autonomy reduces the risk of falls, depression, heart disease, and diabetes. Not only does being independent have a positive effect on your physical health, but it also supports cognitive ability.
How to Stay Independent in Old Age
A senior who can make decisions and retain their independence will benefit from enhanced self-esteem and a higher quality of life. The following are tips to help you and your loved ones stay independent as you get older:
1. Stay On Top of Your Health
Seniors should be proactive in managing their health needs by committing to regular checkups and screenings tailored to their age group. Visiting the doctor consistently can help senior citizens uncover potential health issues early. That way, they can prevent those issues from becoming more serious or acute.
Eating a healthy diet, prioritizing physical activity, getting enough sleep, and maintaining a regular schedule all promote senior health and independence. By implementing lifestyle changes that improve senior health, older adults are taking actionable steps to remain independent for as long as possible.
2. Stay Socially Connected
Staying socially connected is incredibly important for senior health. Maintaining independence and improving mental health are just a few benefits seniors reap when engaging in healthy communication with others.
Studies show that social isolation could be linked to physical diseases like dementia or depression. A lack of social connections is also associated with unhealthy behaviors and poor health outcomes.
Establishing regular conversations helps to create an environment that supports proper mental health. Developing strong relationships with others also allows seniors to remain independent by having access to a support system when needed.
3. Have a Sense of Purpose
Having a sense of purpose is essential to senior health and well-being. Research has shown that those who lead active lifestyles, whether through work, hobbies, or volunteer activities, experience improved physical and mental health outcomes, greater independence with age, and a longer lifespan than their inactive peers.
Additionally, a strong connection to the family brings senior citizens comfort and nurturance while providing them with opportunities for socialization. All this can help stave off isolation and depression.
Senior citizens should take every opportunity to engage in meaningful activities so as to stay healthy and independent for as long as possible.
4. Make Plans to Properly Prepare for Old Age
As senior citizens grow older, it is important to legally document their wishes for senior health and assets before it is too late. This ensures that the senior’s decisions remain in their hands and not someone else’s. Doing so offers seniors a greater sense of independence and control over their life.
Having a legal document protects the individual’s rights and interests and offers peace of mind to both the senior citizen and their loved ones. Take the time to settle the following documents:
- Healthcare power of attorney
- Power of attorney for finances
- Advanced directive
- Living trust
5. Exercise
Regular physical activity can help seniors maintain their independence and reduce the risk of falls that often occur as they age. Exercise can also reduce a person’s risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Weight training and balance exercises are particularly beneficial as they can improve strength and coordination. This enables seniors to move more confidently and remain steady on their feet. Social activities like walking with friends or joining a gym class can also provide seniors with opportunities for meaningful connections while still providing physical benefits.
Remember to check with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine. Once cleared, you can aim for at least half an hour of physical activity on most days of the week.
6. Make Use of Connected Technology
Seniors often need the extra support that connected technology can offer to improve their home environment while still maintaining their health and independence.
Technologies such as email, social media, instant messaging, and wireless thermostats can make life easier for seniors. Through easy-to-use apps on their smartphones, they can adjust lighting and security systems to best suit their needs.
These technologies enable seniors to live more secure and independent lifestyles while adapting well to the ever-changing environmental aspects of their homes.
7. Don’t Let Your Age Define What You Can and Can’t Do
Most seniors believe they should limit themselves to what they already know and can do because of their age. However, senior health and independence can be improved through learning new activities and taking on new challenges.
You can pick up a new hobby or improve your skills at a sport or activity you have always enjoyed. Any attempt to challenge yourself to try something out of your comfort zone provides opportunities for learning, personal growth, and enhanced independence.
So don’t let your age define what you can or cannot do: push yourself without going overboard. Learn something new and regain control over your aging with your own life-enhancing experiences.
The Bottom Line
While independence is key to senior health and well-being, it’s not always easy for seniors to maintain their autonomy and be self-reliant. There are a few things you can do as a family member or friend of a senior to help them stay independent.
Make sure seniors have plenty of opportunities to engage in social activities. Furthermore, remind them to stay on top of their health and fitness by attending regular checkups and exercising.
Finally, provide support when needed but also allow your loved one to make their own decisions whenever possible. By following these tips, you can help your loved one live a healthy, independent, and fulfilling life.