Often, growing old is framed in a way that presents challenges in a negative light. But as we age, we have the chance to embark on new adventures and opportunities. Changing our perspective on growing older can mean we avoid losing our independence, and instead live a full life, your whole life.
It’s also understandable to feel worried about a loved one as they age. Chronic health issues can certainly contribute to a loss of independence. Fears around not being able to carry out everyday tasks and remain in our homes are something people and their relatives face as they look into the future.
The good news is that there are many ways to counter these issues and enjoy the fact that as you age, you’ll have more quality time for yourself and your loved ones than ever before. Through new technology to managing mobility and health, you can make the most of each day.
Retaining your independence
What does independence look like to you as you age? It usually comes down to the simple, but important parts of everyday life. Dressing if mobility is a problem. Cooking your food and getting to the shops to buy things like groceries. If these things are becoming unmanageable, the worry about not being able to stay in your home can also become part of the picture.
All these things, as basic as they may sound, become the markers for your quality of life. Rather than accepting this as the unavoidable ageing process, you can take steps to improve your day-to-day. Mobility can be helped by activities like walking and water aerobics, to simple physio exercises that can be done from a chair. When it comes to working out your mind, puzzles, games, and hobbies can all be beneficial to cognitive processes. By staying active both mentally and physically, you’ll be embracing life and investing in your overall health.
Creating a safe environment
To some, the idea of modifying your home to cope with older age may seem like an admission of defeat. So, think about it like this, with a better, safer environment you’ll be able to reduce the risk of falling down in the home. This will put both you and your loved one’s minds at rest.
Although most falls around the home result in minor injuries, they can create a sense of fear and worry around staying safe which can be extremely limiting. They are a frequent occurrence in over 55s too, meaning that we are at greater risk of falling and tripping at home as we age. Yet it doesn’t take much to improve the safety around your home, giving you greater confidence, and freedom to live the life you like.
Getting the right support
Mobility aids can help you move around with confidence. By finding out what kind of mobility aids could support you in your daily tasks, you can overcome everyday challenges. Canes, mobility scooters, and safety modifications like walk-in baths, ramps, and handrails are all useful ways of supporting your activities each day.
A solid support network is another thing that can ease the pressure of living with things like decreased mobility as we age. Joining a networking group, taking up a new hobby that exposes you to a social circle, and developing friendship groups are all positive ways to expand your support network. This will also help more nervous relatives to relax, knowing that you have additional support around you.
Embracing technology
The idea that technology is for the young is an erroneous one at best. From staying in touch with relatives and friends through social media to integrating clever technology like smart locks and automated thermostats in your home, you can create a comfortable, connected environment.
Essentially, it’s tricks like this that are open to us now, which mean we can enjoy living safely and comfortably in our homes and reduce the risk of isolation. It’s all about stepping into the future with confidence.