5 Steps to Maintain Your Independence at Home

Maintaining independence at home as we age is a crucial issue. After all, I haven’t met anyone who volunteered happily to go into a nursing home. But by maintaining our health; both our physical and mental health, this allows us to enjoy both freedom and our own independence as we age. So what are some things that can be done to help in maintaining our independence; in our own homes, and our independence as we get older so that what I wrote isn’t just a trite phrase?

Below is a list of 5 suggestions.

1. Preventing falls: As we get older our bones become more fragile. If we fall it can result in fractures. A fracture to the hip; for instance, can actually be deadly. Even if there is recovery, this type of fall can still change our lives drastically where we can’t live independently. So; therefore, be aware of physical surroundings. Turn on lights to see where the steps are then and be careful of wet floors or surfaces that are slippery. Also, be aware that some medications can cause dizziness and allow for that. Put up railings where they’re needed too. So don’t assume; inspect. And don’t overdo; use commonsense in physical activities. Assuming and overdoing leads to falling.
   
   
2. It’s a good idea if help is needed for certain aspects of our daily routines to hire home care assistance. If you are having difficulty with housekeeping chores, this service can help; for instance. A home care provider can even take you to the grocery store or do your shopping for you. A home care provider can be at your home at times that are convenient for you too.
   
   
3. If steps are becoming a problem, give some thought to moving your bedroom downstairs. Avoiding steps, if you’re having difficulty with them, is a wise thing to do. By moving your bedroom downstairs, you are on the same level as the kitchen and other main rooms of your home too. This is also not only more practical but more convenient.
   
   
4. If you need help, you should ask for it. If you’re having trouble getting around or are afraid to drive anymore, let your family know. I know it’s important to keep your independence, but you can’t ignore the reality of running over curbs and going through stop signs. If you build up a supportive network of friends and family though, you’ll actually be able to stay in your home longer than being. Also, not being able to drive does not equal a nursing home, there are buses and cabs - and quality home care companies offer transportation too.
   
   
5. Take a look at the furniture and layout of your home. Little things can cause a big problem if they aren’t dealt with. For instance, is the bottom of your shower slippery? You may want to consider a good bathmat with first rate suction. What about the coffee table that’s too close to the couch? If you get up too fast, you’re going to bump into it and possibly fall. Are some of corners of the house dark? Consider brighter lights. What about your carpet; is it loose? Get some carpet nails. Clutter and untidiness are bad too; no need to put this in a question with the rhetorical answer. After all, tripping over clothes that are lying around and slipping on a dropped empty plastic grocery bag is easy enough to do at 20; but at 80 you may not get up. So cleaning is important.

Many things that help maintain your independence are just common sense. All you need to do is to take a careful, honest look around and see what you can do to improve your safety so you can live at home.