Seniors living Independently
Every person views independent living differently. For some it is lonely and a burden to keep up the house and yard. For others it is peaceful and comfortable to live alone. Independent living may mean that you stay in your own home, or, move to a senior community where you have a smaller apartment but a greater social network. As the years pass it becomes harder to continue to live independently in your home or a senior condo. If you want to stay independent for the longest time possible, here are 6 tips to keep happy, healthy, and safe.
- Be very organized: Wether you see it or not memory starts to slip over time so keep a date book, write a diary, or mark the calendar on the wall with important dates and appointments. When we are not working days slide together but a good organization system will keep you on top of things.
- Adapt your house for possible physical limitations: If you are fit now is the perfect time to prepare for the future. Add grab bars, change knobs for level style handles, make the kitchen, bathroom and bedroom as clutter free and easy to use as possible. There are professionals that can audit your home and create a change list that will keep you comfortable year after year.
- Create and keep updated a medical record: The record should include all medications, each doctor visit and what was discussed and any conditions. This is good for you to check if you can not remember a detail, it can be given to a new doctor for a holistic picture. If you are ever in trouble a friend or family member can make sure care is not delayed with this record.
- Set up a network of help for the things you can’t take care of: If you are not living in a community with snow removal and landscaping look into contracting for both. Interview and hire a handy man who can do odd jobs monthly for you so nothing falls apart and you are not tempted to climb a ladder to fix a lightbulb.
- Keep your affairs in order: Not to be morbid but you would never want to leave behind a difficult situation. You should have a will, a care directive, and your wishes known for any important topics. Similar to your medical record, keep an account of passwords and where your money and important papers are in a safe place and let someone you trust, or your lawyer, know where that is. Appoint a power of attorney and consult a lawyer to make sure all your bases are covered. Make a date yearly to review everything and make sure it is all up to date.
- Be as healthy as possible: Keep on top of your physical fitness with an exercise routine. Exercise your brain with puzzles and learning new things. Eat right and take your vitamins and medications as directed. Enjoy time with friends and family and have fun.
These six tips should help you keep your independence. If it is important to you to live alone, in your home or a community, then you need to take ownership of that decision and be as proactive as possible.
