Age 55 and Older? Here's How to Live Independently While Staying Healthy
As we get older, we become more concerned about our health and safety for ourselves and our loved ones. Being independent is usually goal one. A few simple steps will help all of us as we get older.
Home safety is so important for seniors; not only does it ensure that there is no potential for accidents and injuries, but it also allows an older individual to remain independent and live in their own homes for as long as possible. There are many steps you can take to age in place without stress; some involve making changes to your home, while other changes will need to be made to your lifestyle. Keeping your physical and mental health in check is the ultimate goal, so look for activities that will help you feel good and stay in shape.
Because falls are one of the most common causes of injury for seniors, it’s crucial to make sure your home is clutter-free and that you’re able to navigate it safely. Houses with stairs are often overwhelming for older adults, especially if there are mobility issues at play; in cases like this. many people choose to downsize and move into a smaller place. This may be an option for you, but it does come with a lot of considerations, so planning well is important.
Pay Attention to These 4 Home Safety Tips
Cleaning Up
Many seniors struggle with completing daily chores, especially if the home is large and has many rooms to take care of on a regular basis. If cleaning the house is too much, consider hiring a professional service to come in and handle things. Keeping each area of your home clean and decluttered is an important part of fall prevention, and if a pro is cleaning for you, that’s one chore you can cross off your list so you can focus on other things — just keep in mind that the average cost of cleaning services can vary depending on where you live.
Making Some Lifestyle Changes
There are many types of lifestyle changes you can make that will help you stay safe and healthy. For instance, exercising every day is a great one; look for workouts that are adaptable to your needs, especially if you have mobility issues. Balance exercises are perfect and can be done with a chair or other stable object. You can also change your diet to reflect your needs, or you might consider investing in a service animal if you are living with a disability. These animals can help with everything from mobility to completing certain tasks, and they are wonderful, compassionate companions who can also boost your mental health.
Making Some Modifications
If your home is a good one in which to age in place but needs a little work, consider making some changes that will help you stay safe. You might add a ramp over the front steps outside, install safety bars in the shower and near the toilet, or replace knobs on cabinets and doors with easy-to-grasp handles. These small changes won’t cost much — safety bars, for example, start at around $20 at Lowe’s, though you might have to hire a contractor to install them — that will allow you to remain independent and safe as you age in place. For bigger modifications that require renovations, however, you can look for grants available specifically to seniors.
Considering Downsizing
Downsizing to a smaller home is a big job, and it takes a lot of careful planning. If your current home is too big for you to maintain or contains many stairs that will be difficult to navigate as you get older, it might be time to think about moving. Talk to your partner or family members about the advantages of downsizing, and ask for their help when it comes time to go through belongings and pack up. Look for a home that is one level and has benefits such as a walk-in shower or widened doorways that will be able to accommodate mobility equipment.
Home safety is an essential part of growing older, and it’s imperative that you take steps to keep yourself healthy while also preventing accidents. By joining the two actions, you’ll be able to ensure your post-retirement years are exactly what you want them to be.
June Duncan is the co-creator of Rise Up for Caregivers, which offers support for family members and friends who have taken on the responsibility of caring for their loved ones. She is the author of the upcoming book, The Complete Guide to Caregiving: A Daily Companion for New Senior Caregivers.
About the Author
June is the co-creator of Rise Up for Caregivers, which offers support for family members and friends who have taken on the responsibility of caring for their loved ones. She is the author of the upcoming book, The Complete Guide to Caregiving: A Daily Companion for New Senior Caregivers.
June Duncan
Contributor since November 15th, 2018
Editor's Note
The cost of long-term health care is rapidly increasing due to the growing need for assistance with daily tasks caused by medical innovation leading to longer life spans and dementia. Medicare and traditional health insurance do not cover long-term health care costs, which can significantly impact one's lifestyle and legacy.
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