It’s a common misconception that getting older makes it impossible for you to remain independent and live at home. The majority of seniors would rather stay in their homes than enter a residential care facility.
It’s never been easier to preserve senior independence with the variety of resources, programmes, and services available. Don’t let age restrict seniors’ skills; take use of the opportunities that are presented. it’s imperative to be conscious of their boundaries and refrain from acting impulsively. Although it can be challenging, seniors can learn to become more independent.
One of the most difficult elements of getting older is the loss of independence. When they begin to lose their independence, many elderly people experience depression and resentment. Assisting loved ones in maintaining their independence can improve their overall quality of life as well as their cognitive, social, and physical capacities.
1. Improve safety within the home
Seniors are especially worried about falling. Your loved one may have anxiety when walking, having a shower, and carrying out other routine tasks by themselves, especially if they have fallen in the past. Fall-proofing their homes can help keep your loved ones safe and encourage them to do things on their own. Your parent may find it easier and safer to live at home with the help of ramps, specially made kitchenware, grab rails, chair lifts, and other gadgets.
Seniors may have a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be minimized with the help of trained in-home caregivers.
2. Purchase a mobility scooter
Elderly adults who use wheelchairs frequently experience loneliness when they are unable to leave their houses on their own. When using a mobility scooter, senior adults can go on short walks, visit friends, or just get some fresh air without having to rely on others. The cost of a mobility device may be partially or totally paid by your loved one’s health insurance provider.
3. Schedule social time
Elders need to socialize with their loved ones as they age, as a loss of freedom can lead to despair and isolation. Making planning for social interactions may help your loved one feel independent while preserving important connections. Talk to your family members to arrange regular visits, phone calls, and letters for your loved one. Visit the local senior centers and encourage your loved one to sign up for a class or take part in something they want to do, like baking, crafting, or solving puzzles.
4. Offer options
Seniors have individual interests and viewpoints. By giving your aging parent the freedom to make their own decisions, you can encourage them to voice their opinions. Provide your loved one with a variety of options for what to eat, wear, and do each day. This allows you to support your loved one’s freedom while still ensuring that they stay safe.
5. Encourage motion
The problem with reduced mobility is that it causes muscle atrophy, which lowers independence and further restricts movement. By checking with your loved one’s doctor, you can determine the ideal workouts for them. As your loved one’s muscles and bones become stronger via daily movement, their mobility and independence will subsequently increase.
Want to learn more?
ConsidraCare’s live in caregiver are experienced professionals who know how to preserve senior independence. Our team of senior care experts can develop a detailed care plan including the daily tasks of the caregiver.
Please reach out to us at wecare@considracare.com, or call us at 1-855-410-7971, and we will be happy to help you arrange care for a loved one.
Maryam is a leading writer at ConsidraCare, specializing in senior care. Her well-researched articles are widely recognized for guiding families through the complexities of caring for loved ones, establishing her as a trusted and authoritative voice in the field.