Celebrating Independence in Older Adults

We all like to be independent. It’s instinctive! As soon as they are able, toddlers will say “I can do it myself” when an adult attempts to help them get dressed or brush their hair. And that desire to be independent is not something that we age out of. Older adults want to be independent as well. They’ve lived a full life doing what they desired and making their own decisions. Studies show that feeling in control of our lives improves our mental health. When we don’t feel that we are in control of our own lives, we may begin to give up on some of the self-care and routines that keep us healthy and safe. That can lead to a downward spiral of increasingly poor outcomes.

The good news is that recent studies show that adults aged 65 and older are doing better than ever! Disability rates are down, fewer older adults need help with the activities of daily living, and seniors’ perception of their own abilities is increasing. That’s good news for the rapidly growing percentage of Americans aged 65 and older.

While it is great that older adults are living longer, healthier lives, we may ask ourselves what we can do to support our loved ones who want to live independently as long as possible. Here are some ways you can promote independence for an older adult in your life.

Encourage social connection: Loneliness is bad for our health. Encourage the older adult in your life to stay socially active by calling friends or participating in activities at a local community center. Volunteering with a cause they are passionate about gives older adults the double benefit of social connection and a sense of purpose.

Promote the use of technology: Technology can help older adults make important social connections via social media sites or other internet-based communities. We can assist the seniors in our lives by teaching them how to sign up and use these websites, as well as helping them to select appropriate devices with accessible large buttons easily readable displays. Ask their doctor to provide them with the availability of telehealth exams. We can also explore accessibility technology such as wearable fall alert devices, smart home technology, and internet-enabled home health monitoring devices. These tools can empower older adults to continue living independently and give their loved ones peace of mind.

Ensure they have choices: Older adults should be empowered to have a say in the decisions affecting their life. Whether it is healthcare decisions or clothing decisions, seniors deserve the same autonomy and respect as any other adult.

Promote safety: Safety begins at home. The desire to be independent remains even as our bodies and abilities change as we get older. But sometimes the process of aging can mean that we need assistance with some activities or modifications to make our environment easier to navigate. Loose rugs or carpeting can increase the risk of a fall. Folks with arthritis may benefit from replacing hard-to-turn round doorknobs with more accessible levers. We can look around our older loved ones’ homes for hazards and ways that we can help make daily activities easier for them. If you think you need help, there are many professionals who can assess a home and recommend modifications and tools that will make the home safer and more accessible for older adults.

The Pivotal Role of In-Home Care

Aging is a beautiful journey filled with cherished memories and wisdom. Let’s explore how Right at Home's in-home care plays a pivotal role in supporting our loved ones as they age gracefully in the comfort of their own homes.

• Personalized Assistance — Right at Home care provides tailor-made support, ensuring seniors receive individualized attention and care.
• Safety & Comfort — Home is a sanctuary of familiarity and cherished memories. By availing in-home caregiving services, our beloved elders can retain their treasured surroundings while staying safe.
• Emotional Well-being — Aging can sometimes bring feelings of loneliness and isolation. Right at Home care professionals serve as compassionate companions, offering emotional support and a listening ear. The presence of a caregiver can significantly enhance mental well-being and reduce the risk of depression.
• Personal Care & Hygiene — Right at Home care professionals assist with bathing, dressing, and grooming, ensuring our loved ones feel confident and dignified in their appearance.
• Household Assistance — From light housekeeping to meal preparation, Right at Home care professionals lend a helping hand with various household chores.
• Medication Management — Aging often involves managing multiple medications, which can be overwhelming. Our care professionals help seniors stay on top of their medication schedules, ensuring they take the right doses at the right times, promoting health and well-being.

Helping Seniors Flourish

Family is the bedrock of support and love, especially when it comes to caring for our aging loved ones. If you're seeking ways to offer meaningful support, here are some suggestions to consider. Together, let's create a nurturing environment where our elders can flourish.

• Communicate with Empathy — Open and compassionate communication is key. Take the time to actively listen to your loved one's needs, concerns, and desires.
• Research and Educate Yourself — Gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and changes associated with aging. Educate yourself about common health conditions, available support services, and resources in your community.
• Foster Independence — Encourage your loved one's independence by promoting activities that support their physical and mental well-being. Engage in exercises, hobbies, or games that stimulate their mind and body.
• Create a Support Network — Reach out to other family members, friends, and community organizations to build a strong support network.
• Seek Professional Assistance — Recognize that caregiving can be challenging, and it's okay to ask for help. Right at Home professional caregivers can offer specialized skills, respite care, and support services tailored to your loved one's needs.
• Prioritize Self-Care — Remember to care for yourself while caring for others. Burnout is a real concern for family caregivers. Taking care of your well-being allows you to be a better caregiver.

Working with Right at Home to Provide an Effective Support System

As family members, we have the privilege of being there for our aging loved ones. By offering support, understanding, and a loving presence, we can help them navigate this beautiful journey with grace and dignity. Together, let's create lasting memories and cherish this precious time. Right at Home In-home caregiving opens doors to a fulfilling and joyful aging experience, empowering our beloved elders to thrive in the comfort of their own homes. Let's embrace this remarkable support system, cherishing every precious moment with our loved ones.

You can download our free Fall Prevention Guide for more helpful tips.