Encouraging Essential Independence In Seniors

Independence affords tremendous benefits to seniors. Studies show that independence can have a wide range of positive effects, including:

• Faster healing times. Seniors who retain a greater sense of independence heal faster. Researchers postulate that successfully going about their daily routines boosts mental health, which benefits the immune system and reduces chronic inflammation.
• A greater sense of self. When seniors significantly influence their day-to-day activities or the extent of their home healthcare services, they fare better emotionally. Making decisions helps aging U.S. men and women feel more self-sufficient and reduces the likelihood of irritability, depression, anger, and anxiety.
• More strength and physical activity. This perk is pretty straightforward. You maintain more physical fitness if you get up and move around more. Even small movements contribute to overall physical well-being. Doing intentional exercise, like walking, gardening, yoga, and modified weight lifting, is easier to do and stick to.
• Independence fosters meaning. One of the most significant predictors of happiness and longevity is having a sense of meaning. Retaining as much independence as possible helps seniors carve out a sense of meaning and purpose. They must make their own decisions, schedule, and determine their preferred activities.

While being independent has several benefits, some obstacles exist for seniors living independently. With some essential adjustments, seniors and their families can overcome those obstacles and live as independently as possible. Here is a breakdown of some of the most common ones:

• Hire a home care aide. Home care aides and/or home care aides acting as part of the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP programs) provide essential care while allowing seniors to live at home and maintain independence. Home care aides can make meals, help with personal hygiene, help with scheduling and appointments, and be there to ascertain that seniors–who are especially prone to loneliness and depression–have regular and reliable companionship on a day-to-day basis. Aides can do as much or as little as you or your loved one requires.
• When it comes to transportation, plan ahead. Are you or your loved one able to drive? Do you have any limitations when it comes to driving? The answers to these questions can help you determine transportation needs. If you need transportation to and from appointments or to and from the grocery store, there are several professional services that can help you. These options are available to help you get what you need when you need it and prevent transportation from getting in the way of your independence.
• Make home safety modifications. Upgrade the bathroom with safety bars next to the toilet and tub and non-slip coating on the floor. Assistive seating (equipment that helps seniors get in and out of chairs on their own) and voice assistants also help tremendously. Voice assistants help makes things simpler–turning lights on and off and remotely controlling the TV. Plus, they can provide reminders for appointments and medications and reach medical or emergency services hands-free if necessary.

Every year, more Americans are aging. By 2060, estimates project that 100 million U.S. men and women will be at least 65 years old. Secure independence for you or your loved one with professional care services and key adjustments around the home.