Promoting Senior Independence

We all value control over our lives, a trait that is evident from early childhood. Babies cry when interrupted during their explorations, and teenagers often clash with parents over autonomy. Eventually, the dynamic shifts—grown children advise their elderly parents, who may resist losing their independence despite valuing their children’s concern.

Research from North Carolina State University explored factors that influence older adults’ sense of control over their lives. One study, published in the Journal of Gerontology: Psychological Sciences, underscores the importance of autonomy in maintaining mental health. Professor Shevaun Neupert, a researcher involved, emphasizes that maintaining autonomy not only benefits older adults’ well-being but is necessary for their mental health.

Another 2019 study by Neupert identified three factors affecting seniors’ independence:

Mood: A positive mood enhances feelings of competence and control, whereas a negative mood can lead to helplessness.

Stress level: High stress diminishes one’s sense of capability, with effects that can persist.

Sleep quality: Being confident and optimistic that one will get good sleep is just as important as actually achieving it.

Neupert points out that losing autonomy can lead to a decline in self-care, increasing the risk of depression, stress, and sleep issues. All of that, in turn, can further reduce independence.

“The impact on a senior wanting to be independent versus the reality of them actually being dependent on the help from others can be very difficult,” said Jim Gall, owner of Right at Home – Northern Michigan.  “I’ve seen personally how age-related changes in ability can impact a senior’s sense of self-worth and overall mental health.  After living independently for decades, coming to grips with the statement, ‘mom, you need help to stay at home’, is very difficult for most seniors” he added.

Planning for potential health challenges is vital for maintaining independence in later years. Deciding where to live plays a critical role. While aging in place might symbolize independence, health issues can complicate this option. Conversely, moving to a senior living community that emphasizes patient-centered care and offers more choices can enhance autonomy.

Of course, we know that most people want to live in their homes for as long as possible. And given that adults who are currently over age 65 are soon to be the largest and longest-living population in a century, it’s in all our best interests to promote independence for seniors. So how can friends and family members of older adults help them maintain their independence?

1. Encourage participation in community activities: Many communities have senior centers or groups that offer a range of activities tailored for older adults. Encourage seniors to join these groups to meet peers and engage in social outings, classes, or trips.
2. Encourage them to use technology: Teach older adults how to use technology to stay connected. This can include social media, messaging apps, and video calls. Devices like smartphones, tablets, and computers can open new avenues for communication and entertainment.
3. Promote volunteering: Volunteering can be a fulfilling way for seniors to feel useful and connected. Help them find volunteering opportunities at local schools, libraries, hospitals, or nonprofit organizations.
4. Help with home modifications. Making the home safer can prevent accidents. This might include installing grab bars in the bathroom, ensuring good lighting, securing rugs to prevent slips, and organizing the home to keep daily necessities within easy reach.

Consider professional help

Professional in-home care can significantly help older adults maintain control over their daily lives. Professional caregivers can also normalize family relationships. Yes, your parents took care of you and changed your diaper. But when those roles are reversed, some people can be reluctant to accept care, thus condemning themselves to a spiral of declining health. In-home care can prevent seniors from feeling like a burden, a common concern among older adults.

In-home care providers can also assist with transportation, helping older adults stay connected to their community and maintain social connections even after the changes of aging make driving difficult. Caregivers can transport seniors to various appointments and social outings, reducing feelings of helplessness and isolation.

“It’s important to start this discussion early in the aging process with your loved ones” adds Gall. “Start the process by talking about their goals and how they want to stay at home. It’s then you can work in the potential that in the long-term, staying at home may necessitate assistance.”

Moreover, in-home care contributes to health maintenance. Professional caregivers ensure nutritious meals are prepared, promote physical activity, and offer companionship during daily tasks, helping break the cycle of health decline due to loss of control. This supportive environment allows older adults to retain a sense of autonomy, even if they can’t perform all tasks independently.