Retain Your Independence with these Helpful Senior Lifestyle Tips

By: Batchelor Brothers Funeral Services
Saturday, March 20, 2021

Aging is different now than it was for previous generations.

More people are living longer than at any other time in history. To support that longevity, there are a growing number of helpful resources, programs, and services available.

Here are six things you can do to enhance your self-sufficiency as you grow older.  

Start by ensuring that your home is safe and accessible.

Aspects that may not have been issues before can pose serious hazards as you age. Stairs, slippery rugs, objects stored on tall shelves, and a lack of grab bars in the bathroom all have the potential to cause serious accidents. Common home safety modifications include:                                                            

  • Removing or securing carpets and loose cords to the floor
  • Installing lights in dark areas of the home, along with accessible switches
  • Installing automatic lights outside
  • Securing all railings, indoors and outside
  • Installing assistance rails in bathrooms and anywhere else they may be needed
  • Moving frequently-used items to lower shelves where they are easily accessible

Establish a frequent check-in schedule with your loved ones.

It’s wise to stay in touch on a regular basis, typically daily or at least a few times per week. These check-ins can be in-person, or by phone or Zoom if your family members aren’t in the vicinity.  

Gain peace of mind with a medical alert system.

Technology makes it easier than ever to alert a family member or 911 if you suffer an accident, emergency, or illness. There are many wearable products available, such as necklaces, clips, and bracelets that make help accessible with just the press of a button.

Try to maintain a healthy diet.

Nutrition can play a huge role in overall well-being as you age. Watch your sugar and sodium intake and introduce more vegetables and fruits into your diet. If you live alone and are unable to cook nutritious meals for yourself, consider having healthy, ready-made meals delivered.

Consider hiring a home health aide.

Especially good for seniors who live alone, home health aides can be valuable assets. They can assist with non-medical assistance with tasks such as cooking, grooming, bathing, cleaning, running errands, and general companionship. For assistance in locating help related to aging safely at home or in a care facility, refer to the Aging Life Care Association.

Find ways to stay active.

Strive to incorporate physical activity throughout your daily routine. Not only has it been proven to reduce the risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and high blood pressure, regular exercise also improves mental health. You don’t have to run a marathon; a 15-minute stroll around the neighborhood can get the blood flowing. When the weather is dismal, stay active indoors by walking up and down the stairs or with an online fitness video. Yoga and tai chi are excellent choices for gently enhancing strength, mindfulness, and balance.

Independence means different things to different people as they grow older.

You may feel that staying in your own home is important, while someone else may choose to reside in a retirement community that offers plentiful opportunities for social engagement. No matter which scenario you prefer, studies suggest that taking the right steps can increase your chances of living a happier, safer, more independent life.

If you need more safety and independence resources for seniors, our compassionate funeral directors are here to assist you. Please reach out to us anytime.

About Batchelor Brothers Funeral Services: As a leading African American-owned and operated funeral and cremation organization, Batchelor Brothers Funeral Services has provided a ministry of care to thousands of grieving families. We promise to provide our highest level of distinguished service and respect to families who entrust us to honor their loved ones. In all aspects of the funeral process, we strive to be the absolute best and are honored to help preserve our clients’ legacies for future generations. With two convenient locations serving North and West Philadelphia, it is always our pleasure to be of service. Please visit our website for more information.

Leave a comment
Name*:
Email:
Comment*:
Please enter the numbers and letters you see in the image. Note that the case of the letters entered matters.

Comments

Please wait

Previous Posts

How to Sort Through Your Departed Loved One’s Belongings and Keep their Memory Alive

Going through a loved one’s belongings after they have passed away is often difficult but you can make the process easier. Just as there is no right way to grieve, there is no specific time that y...

May is Stroke Awareness Month. Knowing The Warning Signs Could Save Your Life.

This year, recognize Stroke Awareness Month by learning more about stroke prevention and detection. When it comes to strokes, every second counts! Nearly two million brain cells die each minute a ...

If You Can’t Sleep, These Seven Surprising Culprits Might Be to Blame

Do you find yourself lying awake in bed or tossing and turning all night? If you can’t sleep, these sneaky slumber thieves could be the cause. Sleep disorders affect an estimated 33% of Americans....

How Much Do You Know About Senior Home Safety?

While familiar surroundings can be comforting as we grow older, home safety measures require extra attention. Changes that come with the aging process like declining vision, hearing, and bone dens...

Honor Your Departed Loved One with These Creative Outdoor Memorial Ideas

Outdoor memorial ideas can range from basic stones to elaborate gardens. Finding a special way to pay tribute to a departed loved one can bring great comfort. Think about the one who passed on and...

It’s Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month. Here are Seven Important Things to Know.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects nearly 1 million adults in the United States and those numbers are growing. MS is both a complex disease of the central nervous system and an autoimmune condition. ...

Do You Know the Rules for Legally Scattering Ashes?

As more and more people choose cremation, questions about legally scattering ashes are on the rise, too.   Ash scattering has become an increasingly popular way to remember the departed. It p...

Four Important Things to Know About the Tax Issues When Losing a Spouse in Pennsylvania

The tax issues when losing a spouse in Pennsylvania are varied and complex. Losing a spouse or life partner is challenging on many levels. In addition to the deep emotional grief and personal loss...

Hobbies and Five Other Activities That Can Help Create a Healthier Brain

Can a healthier brain be as close as your chessboard? The experts say yes. As we age, the structure of the brain changes, which can adversely affect memory and cognition. It can be challenging to ...

Six Helpful Tips for Discussing Your Funeral Plans with Your Family

The most crucial conversations are often the hardest, and discussing your funeral plans with loved ones is a prime example. Talking about your funeral preferences with a spouse, parent, or child i...