No matter our path in life, we all have to face one shared reality, which is ageing. As many of us climb up in years, we want to age gracefully and keep our independence. So, whether you’re a baby boomer approaching the “golden years” or are already in the midst of them, keeping your independence is important. Here are a few suggestions to help you in this.
Concerns about housing
Sometimes when we get older, the house becomes a burden. It is either too much to keep up with, too expensive, or we just want something smaller. This doesn’t mean you have to sell everything and go live with your kids though. There are other options to choose from instead. For example, there is senior co-housing. This concept consists of a common house which has a living room, dining room, an activity room and a space just for gathering and shooting the breeze. There are separate 1-2-or 3 bedroom units surrounding the house and you can choose which one of these you prefer to live in. You can then participate in sharing and preparing meals, different forms of recreation, and lending a helping hand when needed. This type of housing is like living in a neighborhood where everyone knows everyone else.
Another type of housing is the 55+ communities. You have to be over 55, be in reasonably good health and be able to take care of the basic activities of living on your own. You can make new friends in these communities and kick back and enjoy yourself. These communities usually have swimming pools, golf courses and even billiards. They also have dance classes, fitness programs, art studios and other such activities. You have all the enjoyment of living in a home while having services and amenities you wouldn’t have living in the house you sold. You are independent and have a social network. So if you don’t want to live in a single family home then a 55+ retirement community may be right for you; browse SeniorHomes.com and you’ll be amazed at the various options that are available.
Now, some baby boomers and seniors are looking for places to live which have more of a “walkability” factor. Places such as these help older people because walking more is especially important as we age. An older person who walks more suffers less from dementia or from mental deterioration. It can keep you healthy in both mind and body. When you live in a walkable neighborhood and everything you need is out your front door, then you tend to take advantage of the walking opportunities.
Driving and independence
Also as we age, our bodies start having some health issues, like arthritis. Driving can become painful and the stiffness can affect how older people drive. The steering wheel may be difficult to grasp. The car may be too low, making it hard to get in and out of it. You could even have a problem fastening your seat belt if you suffer from neck and shoulder pain. Some days you may not even want to drive because it is so difficult and painful. But, have you thought of car modifications? With modifications to your car, you can maintain your independence. You can have installed key-less remote entry and a car starter so you don’t have to twist the key (and your fingers) to start your car. Modified or extended seat-belts pull more smoothly across your shoulders, chest and waist and are easier to fasten and unfasten. Mirror extensions can be used so you don’t have to twist your shoulders and neck to see out of the mirror. There are so many modifications for many different health issues that can help you drive which keeps you independent.
Hobbies
Is there an activity that you’ve always wanted to try but never seemed to have the time? Now is the point in your life in which you can seize the opportunity to explore new sides of yourself. Don’t let fear block you from trying new things and, instead, embrace the unknown. Developing new skills will introduce you to new friends, keep you mentally engaged and build confidence that will take you far.
Health issues
One of the biggest worries with health issues is what if something happens and we’re by ourselves? Using a medical alert system from companies like Fall Alert can give you and your family peace of mind and an extra safety measure that won’t curb your lifestyle. Other ways to stay healthy to ensure your independence is to stay up to date on your immunizations. Also go to your dentist regularly, have your vision checked and your hearing. Keep your stress under control, make time for your friends and have fun… Enjoy life!
Independence is something we all value highly; hopefully these suggestions will help you to continue being the independent person you want to be.
This is a guest post written for Yourwellness by Linda Ruzicka.
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