As we get older, we may lose some of our faculties. This can make it a struggle to do basic day-to-day tasks. While some of us are willing to let others help out with these tasks, some of us may be more stubborn and may value our independence. It also doesn’t help that hiring care is expensive and that availability of care may be limited.
Fortunately, there are many ways in which we can maintain our independence in older age so that we’re not reliant on professional carers or family members. Here are just some of the ways in which you can stay independent.
Consider making improvements to your home
There are many home improvements that you can get done in order to make it easier to get around with reduced mobility. Clearing away clutter so that walkways are free could help to prevent falls. You could also consider adding grab bars or rails to walls so that you’re more easily able to support yourself.
A stairlift could also be useful if you have stairs to climb. On top of this, you may be able to add ramps in certain places instead of having to negotiate steps.
It’s possible that you may be able to get funding for these improvements if you have a registered disability.
Take advantage of technology
There are lots of ways in which you can use technology to stay independent. Scooters and wheelchairs can be useful for getting around – they could enable you to go shopping without having to rely on others.
Taking advantage of the internet could also help with maintaining independence. Learning how to use video messaging could allow you to keep up face-to-face conversations with friends and relatives without having to leave the house. You could also start using online shopping to buy things that you need if going to the shops is too much of a hassle.
Smart technology is starting to become more widespread and can be particularly useful for those with mobility issues. Using your smartphone, you may be able to control everything from your home’s heating to the lighting to the TV. Setting up this technology can be a bit expensive but could be worth the convenience.
Don’t neglect physical activity
Staying physically active can help you toward other health problems. This could prevent your condition from deteriorating and stop you from becoming more dependant on others.
You may not be able to work out at the gym or go jogging anymore, but there may still be ways of keeping active such as walking, swimming, or taking part in exercises like yoga. There are also many exercises that can be done in a wheelchair that can help to engage your core.
Exercise will also help your mind. If you’ve got early onset dementia, you may be able to reduce cognitive decline by regularly staying active.
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