Maintaining independence while aging -
The chance to set and reach goals has a big impact, even if they seem small. Independence allows older adults to take on the unique challenges of aging head on and overcome them with a sense of accomplishment.
Even if a senior is limited by mobility, they can still gain a sense of purpose through involvement in volunteer activities.
For example, VANTAGE RSVP offers a Telecare program. Volunteers provide friendly, reassuring calls to homebound seniors to address social isolation. Volunteerism provides a sense of purpose and involvement in the community.
The effects of independent living can contribute to improved health conditions in some older adults. Increased memory skills are just one to name, and an important factor in living a fulfilling life.
Memory loss gradually happens as we age, but independence and activity boost memory skills. Higher activity levels increase blood flow to the brain and using the mind often helps to preserve memory. Daily routines help promote both memory and independence. Sometimes, independence may be the only thing seniors feel that they control.
The ability to live independently empowers seniors and reinforces that, though some factors, such as health or financial stability, may prevent them from carrying out some activities they once did, they still have a hold on many aspects of their life.
A sense of control also promotes a feeling of achievement and self-worth. Good rapport can stem from a senior-caregiver relationship built on promoting independence. Caregivers can provide seniors with the tools and resources they need to maintain independence, such as helping them set up their home in a way that promotes fall prevention and helping them navigate digital devices to stay connected with family members.
At VANTAGE , we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to live independently with dignity, regardless of age, income, or disability. We offer wraparound programs and services that address the unique needs of seniors who want to remain in their own homes and active in their communities in Summit and surrounding counties in Ohio.
Learn more about our programs on our website, or call to find out how we can help you or your loved one. This article should not be used as a substitute for consultation with professional legal, medical, or other competent advisors. Skip to content Home » Blog » Reasons Independence Is Important for Seniors.
Why seniors need independence Loss of independence can be discouraging to older adults. Feel like an individual The ability to make choices throughout the day has a big impact on how you feel about yourself. Sense of purpose Loss of independence can be isolating.
Aids with memory skills The effects of independent living can contribute to improved health conditions in some older adults. Being independent can provide security and help seniors be more resilient to challenges and negative experiences.
Plus, independence has been tied to better well-being and lower rates of depression in seniors. On the contrary, lack of autonomy is linked with higher stress and poor health. So, as seniors exercise their independence, they can be more content, ward off depression, and maintain cognitive health.
The desire to feel in control and the ability to act on our environment to make things happen are natural parts of being human. In fact, it has helped the human race survive and even thrive.
Seniors, too, need to feel like they can still control certain areas of their lives. When seniors have to make a decision on their own or perform a task independently, they exercise their brain.
The mental stimulation that comes from doing meaningful tasks helps keep the brain healthy and maintain cognitive abilities. Some research suggests that these types of activities help fight off age-related brain changes.
So, even as a senior loses physical ability, encourage them to participate in activities that stimulate and strengthen their mind. RELATED CONTENT: How to Improve Senior Brain Health. You might not think that independence is related to physicality, but it can be!
Doing things on your own can help keep your muscles toned and maintain your core balance. A lot of daily tasks require movement: washing dishes, folding laundry, walking to the bathroom, standing in the shower, etc.
As seniors move on their own throughout the day, they can help keep their muscles healthy and work to prevent dangerous falls. While independence and self-sufficiency are important for seniors, there are many age-related changes and even circumstances that can threaten independence.
Some of these challenges include the following:. Despite age-related changes, home care can help empower seniors to be as independent as possible at home. Care involves supporting a senior as they carry out their daily routine.
Caregivers can assist as needed and do tasks that seniors may no longer be able to do themselves. Home care can also help ensure that a senior is safe at home, allowing them to enjoy their independence longer. The care we provide can help seniors remain at home instead of going to a nursing home or assisted living facility.
To learn more about how we can help your aging loved one maintain their independence, reach out to your local Caring team. Tags: Senior Living. Topics: Senior Living. About Us Services Personal Care Transportation Meal Preparation Medication Reminders Companionship Respite Care Errand Service Light Housekeeping Family Portal Home Care Assessment Specialty Programs Careers Franchising Find a Location.
Personal Care Medication Reminders Errand Service Home Care Assessment Transportation Companionship Light Housekeeping Meal Preparation Respite Care Family Portal Specialty Programs Veteran Services.
There is a common misconception that getting Whild means Maintajning are no longer Eco-Safe Energy Options of living at home and being independent. The truth is, most seniors would rather remain in the comfort of their indelendence homes Apple cider vinegar and natural remedies go elsewhere. Independece more than ever, this can be a reality by following some ways to maintain independence at home. Being an independent senior has never been easier with the number of resources, programs, and services available to help you. Take advantage of the opportunities around you and do not let your age define what you can and cannot do. With this being said, it is important to know your limits and not act irrationally when choosing to remain independent.Maintaining independence while aging -
If an aging adult is still fit enough to work for a few hours per week, this is a great option. There are many reasons why retired people choose to keep working. The Bureau of Labor Statistics BLS predicts that the labor force of people 75 years and older will increase by Whether due to financial reasons, loneliness, or purely wanting to have a schedule or purpose, more people are looking for jobs during retirement.
To a twenty-year-old, independence may look like having your own apartment and paying your bills on time each month. But an year-old may have a different understanding of the term. Assisted living facilities also give aging adults many opportunities to socialize, utilize community resources, organize events, and participate in activities that give them a sense of identity and keep their mental faculties sharp.
Our devices can provide your loved ones with the freedom they desire and give you the peace of mind YOU deserve. Contact us to learn more about how our devices can work for you and the people you love most. You must be logged in to post a comment.
Showering can pose a safety hazard, especially for aging adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC , about , people. Have you ever thought about what you would do in an unsafe, dangerous, or violent situation?
One in every six. How can we help adults maintain independence as they age? Caregivers , Technology for Aging Adults No Comments. Summary Aging adults who need assistance can still maintain their independence in various ways. Older adults can enjoy independent living by making modifications around the house, using technology, being involved in their communities, and building networks.
Independence gives them a sense of self-worth, confidence, and purpose. There are many things you can do to ensure your loved ones maintain their independence as they age. These include them enabling them to remain active, modifying their home, investing in technology, and sticking to a schedule.
Why is independence important to aging adults? Independence gives us a sense of self-worth, purpose, and confidence. How can loss of independence affect an adult? No longer be able to enjoy their hobbies.
See a decrease in their physical health because they feel demotivated to exercise. Lose muscle mass due to lack of exercise and an imbalanced diet.
Lose their sense of identity. Experience frustration, pain, anxiety, or fear. Lose their self-confidence and their dignity. Develop difficulties focusing or remembering things. What are the benefits of remaining independent as you age?
Does being independent mean I have to live alone? What are some risk factors that contribute to loss of independence?
Failing eyesight and hearing can also make it more difficult for adults to complete simple tasks. Poor mental health: Anxiety disorders, sleep disturbances, and overall reduced cognitive abilities can make it difficult and unsafe to perform duties.
Social isolation: According to the American Psychological Association APS , social isolation and loneliness increase the risk of premature death, and older adults are most at risk as they experience limited social interactions.
Living in unfavorable conditions or environments: Living arrangements that are unsuitable for aging adults can cause them to become withdrawn or depressed. No longer leaving the house: Older people who are unable to leave the house due to physical limitations can become restless, irritable, and anxious.
Limited access to health care, proper foods, or equipment that can make their home safer, can seriously impact their independence. How to maintain independence while aging There are several benefits to maintaining independence while aging—for the person experiencing aging and for their families and friends.
Prioritize physical health It goes without saying that physical health contributes to overall health and well-being. Maintain social connections Social connections are essential to all human beings, and they may be the most important part of healthy aging. As adults age, they may have fewer social connections due to: Difficulties moving around or leaving the house.
Retiring from work or changes in living arrangements. Limited funds or income. Losing family, friends, or a partner. No longer being able to drive or get around safely on their own. Plan for your future By planning ahead, you can ensure that you and your loved ones have adequate resources to maintain independence as they grow old.
Make changes around the home For adults who choose to age in place, changes around the home may be necessary—especially if they have mobility issues. Purchase practical clothing It may not be an obvious factor, but clothing choices can play a big role in helping older adults maintain their independence.
Aging adults should try to avoid clothing that: Is tight or restrictive. Chafes the skin or causes discomfort. Has fastenings that are difficult to tie or loosen, such as clasps avoiding this type of clothing is especially important for adults suffering from arthritis.
Should be pulled over the head some older adults may struggle to lift their arms. Practical articles of clothing that are better suited to aging adults include: Loose-fitting pants and tops made of soft fabric.
Clothing with Velcro or button closures. Cardigans or jackets that can are easy to put on and take off. Clothing that requires little or no ironing. Simple accessories, such as scarves and hats.
Some other benefits of sticking to a schedule include: Lowering stress and anxiety. Promoting better sleep. Making it easier to schedule time for hobbies and leisure activities. How can we help ourselves and our aging loved ones remain independent?
The sooner you start, the greater your chances of growing old with grace and freedom. Invest in technology The world is changing and you should change with it. Be involved in the community Even if your mom or dad no longer has a 9 to 5 job, they can still find purpose by getting involved in the community—whether it be volunteering at the local school or library, or baking cookies for the church bazaar.
Mentor someone With age comes wisdom—this is why older people often make such great mentors. Get a part-time job If an aging adult is still fit enough to work for a few hours per week, this is a great option.
Focus on what you can do This comes back to independence meaning different things to different people. For an aging adult, independence may mean being able to: Order their own groceries by phone or online.
Go to the bathroom by themselves. Improving medication management. Take a shower or bath unassisted. Prepare a meal. Perform online banking.
Move around the house on their own. Can adults in assisted living facilities still be independent? What can I do to help my loved ones maintain independence during old age? Do you have concerns about your aging loved ones?
Making decisions on their behalf, especially without consulting them first, can cause frustration on behalf of your loved one and affect their happiness and quality of life. Allow them to make their own choices to preserve their sense of control over their lives while still getting support from caregivers.
Exercise is key to helping your loved one stay physically, mentally, and emotionally fit and healthy as possible. There are plenty of exercise groups for older people that you can take advantage of. Mental exercises, such as puzzles and board games, are also great for mental stimulation.
Safety in the home is essential to older adults staying active. To minimize the risk of falls, search the home for potential hazards that can be removed. It can be easy to forget a pair of shoes on the floor, garden tools in the backyard, extension cords in walking areas, and other items that present falling risks.
Ensure that items are put away to keep walkways clear and safe. You should also make sure you engage with your loved one as you would with anyone else. Ask for their opinion on various issues and treat them as you always have to help them feel included in your day-to-day life. Implementing these strategies will help them ease into the process and realize that they can continue having independence while receiving the care they need.
For more information about our eldercare services, please feel free to contact us anytime. Michael Lu is the founder of CareHop. He started the business inspired by his Grandmother to look at ageing as a happy experience to bring sunshine into the homes of others. Here are eight ways to accomplish this: 1.
Help them continue with hobbies and social activities Encourage your older loved ones to maintain their hobbies and participate in social activities. Provide comfortable, accessible clothing Getting dressed is an intimate and integral part of our day.
Install support equipment at home As your loved one gets older and their need for support increases, start thinking about household equipment that can help them continue to live independently at home. Encourage physical and mental exercise Exercise is key to helping your loved one stay physically, mentally, and emotionally fit and healthy as possible.
One of the most difficult Indepenrence of aging is insependence loss of independence many seniors feel. When they Free radical theory of aging to qhile their independence, many older adults experience feelings of depression and frustration. Maintaining independence while aging your aging loved one to be independent can enhance his or her quality of life and cognitive, social, and physical skills. Falling is a serious concern for seniors. The fear of falling, especially if your loved one has fallen before, may make him or her worried about walking, showering, and doing everyday tasks independently. Making safety modifications in the home may keep your loved one safe and encourage him or her to do things without assistance.
Diese einfach bemerkenswerte Mitteilung