Tips To Thrive While Aging Independently
Many of us long to age at home. We feel a deep attachment to our homes, and enjoy the independence, freedom, and familiarity that comes with dwelling in our own space. But for many, it can be difficult to maintain our independence as everyday activities become more difficult over time. According to an AARP survey, only 46% of seniors (50+) anticipate that they will be able to age in place in their current home.
We sat down with occupational therapist Ashley Mason, PhD, OTR/L, and current professor at Ithaca College, to talk about tips and resources to make aging in place a viable option for more Americans.
Remain as physically active as possible
As we age, simple tasks can become challenging, including moving around the home, self-care, opening containers, and standing for long periods of time.
The best way to maintain your ability to do everyday tasks is to remain as active as possible. This could be traditional exercises such as walking, yoga, and swimming, but household activities are also a great way to get in your daily physical activity. Cleaning cabinets, standing while washing the dishes, vacuuming, and sweeping are all great ways to stay active.
“I would encourage people to move as much as they can, even if that means moving your arms or opening and closing your hands while you’re sitting on the sofa,” shared Dr. Mason.
Remember to keep moving for 30 minutes a day and find ways to break up long periods of sitting. If you’re starting a new exercise, take it slow! It may feel tough at first, but you’ll be able to do more as you get stronger. Get inspired by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg who even worked with a personal trainer at age 87!
Accessibility and fall prevention in the home
There are many changes you can make in your home to make independent living easier and safer. Keep heavy kitchen appliances at a level where they’re easy to move so that you aren’t stepping on a chair or reaching high to get them. You should also have a clear walking space to move around your home and avoid clutter as much as possible. To prevent falls, use reflective tape on your stairs to make them easier to see, avoid throw rugs that may be easy to trip on, and use a bath mat to prevent slips in the shower.
Find ways to socially connect
When living independently, social interaction is extremely important to your health.
“It’s hard to stay socially connected during COVID and when it’s cold outside, especially as driving becomes more difficult, but that socio-emotional piece is very important to your health,” shared Dr. Mason.
Staying socially connected used to mean joining clubs, taking exercise classes, organizing game nights, and participating in local events, but there are still ways to interact with people virtually. Try to call or video chat with family or friends regularly; virtual birthday parties or dinners are a great way to feel connected. Sites like Meetup and Stitch are designed to help people over 50 to meet. You can also look for senior clubs that may be having virtual events and activities and try online dating websites like SeniorMatch, Over50Date.com, and SilverSingles.
Look for assistive products
Assistive products can make doing everyday activities easier and safer. For example, if moving around your home becomes difficult, use wall railings or grab bars; this is much safer than grabbing onto furniture. If you’re having difficulty with small objects, there are button hooks, sock aids, foam tubing, and writing grips that can make everyday activities possible again. If using nail clippers is challenging, the Soulo Nail Trimmer is a toenail filer designed for reach that helps you to independently and safely trim your own toenails. From electric can openers and key holders to magnifiers and shoe horns, you can find a product to assist with almost any problem you may be having.
“You’re not too old to do anything, these products are meant to support you to continue to live your best life,” said Dr. Mason.
Have people who are available to help you
Have people nearby who can assist you when you need them. This could be a friend who is willing to bring you to a store, an aid that helps you clean, professionals to mow your lawn, or a neighbor to check on you from time to time. There are also organizations like Meals on Wheels that can connect you with a volunteer to deliver you groceries and Papa Pal, an on-demand assistance service, available in Florida and other southern states. Having people who can lend a helping hand allows you to live independently without being alone.
If aging in place is important to you, these changes can help you thrive independently while keeping you safe and healthy. Making adjustments to your home and using new products and services can feel overwhelming at first, but as you incorporate them into your routine, they can go a long way in helping you live your life at home to the fullest.
*If you have any questions about where to get assistive equipment or making safe changes to your home, ask your doctor to refer you to an occupational therapist.