10 Tips to Remain Independent as You Age

Changes experienced as we age can affect our quality of life and ability to live independently. These changes can range from retirement or the death of a spouse to age-related health issues.

Losing your independence can be challenging both physically and mentally. Being independent provides many benefits, such as a more purposeful life, feeling confident and in control, and the ability to remain safely in your home.

10 Tips To Help You Remain Independent as You Age

1. Create a Safe Home
   Unfortunately, our bodies change as we age. Often, we don't see or hear as well as we once did, our bones become fragile and can break more easily, we lose muscle strength and flexibility, and so on. All these changes can create hazards in our home that weren't there before. Thankfully, you can take many steps – some very low-cost - to create a safer home environment for yourself or an aging loved one to remain independent and continue enjoying the comforts of living at home.
   
   
2. Stay Active
   "As an older adult, regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health. It can prevent or delay many of the health problems that seem to come with age," the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states. "It also helps your muscles grow stronger so you can keep doing your day-to-day activities without becoming dependent on others." The CDC recommends adults aged 65 and older need at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week, muscle-strengthening activities at least two days a week, and activities to improve balance.
   
   
3. Stretch
   Regular stretching can help keep you healthy and mobile so you can remain independent and enjoy life more. Stretching helps you maintain good balance, strengthen muscles, decrease chronic pain, reduce the risk of falls, and more.
   
   
4. Exercise Your Mind
   Exercising your brain – jigsaw puzzles, crossword puzzles, problem-solving or memory games, learning a new skill, hobbies, reading, etc. – is as essential as exercising your body to remain independent.
   
   
5. Stay Social
   Humans are naturally social creatures who need social interaction to maintain a happy and healthy life. Studies show that seniors who self-identify as lonely are more likely to suffer from functional decline and death than their non-lonely counterparts. Consider adopting a furry friend, checking out a local senior center, joining a club, and/or regularly visiting friends and family.
   
   
6. Get Organized
   Some forgetfulness is often a normal part of aging, but being organized can help minimize its impact on your ability to live independently. Get organized by creating lists, using calendars, and keeping important documents in a safe place.
   
   
7. Volunteer
   According to the Mayo Clinic, "Research has shown that volunteering offers significant health benefits, especially for older adults." Those benefits include improved physical and mental health, a sense of purpose, and the ability to nurture relationships.
   
   
8. Stay on Top of Your Health
   As we age, we often develop age-related health issues; however, staying on top of your health helps ensure early diagnosis and allows you to manage these issues better. Get regular health screenings, take prescribed medications, get regular dental and eye exams, etc.
   
   
9. Plan Ahead 
   Planning in advance can provide peace of mind, reduce stress for you and your family, and ensure your wishes are followed. The National Institute on Aging (NIH) offers a checklist for getting your affairs in order.
   
   
10. Get Help 
    This may seem contradictory, but sometimes, accepting a little help can go a long way in allowing you to live a more independent life. For example, if you no longer feel comfortable driving, finding someone to drive you can help ensure you continue to attend your doctors' appointments and continue to socialize. Hiring a part-time caregiver can also ensure you take the proper medication to stay healthy, ensure your daily living needs are taken care of, and so much more. If your aging loved one is reluctant to ask for help, here are eight helpful tips.

Contact Us for Help with Independent Living

Phoebe Ministries offers many options—from in-home care to independent living communities—to help ensure that you or an aging loved one can continue to live safely and independently. Call today at 610-625-5206 or connect with us online to learn more.