The Importance of Maintaining Independence for Seniors

Independence is one of the best parts of adulthood. We yearn for it as children and embrace it as young adults. However, as we age, painful chronic health issues, declining mobility, and cognitive impairments can jeopardize our independence.

Almost 90% of adults aged 65 and older want to remain in the comfort of their own homes as they age. Not being able to do so can lead to seniors feeling frustrated, anxious, and depressed.

Keep reading to learn why maintaining independence is essential for seniors and a few tips to help you or your loved one remain independent for as long as possible.

4 Reasons Why Independence Is Important for Seniors

1. Feelings of Self-Worth and Dignity

Living alone and caring for themselves allows older adults to maintain their self-respect and worth. They still have their autonomy and are capable of making their own decisions.

Having to rely on family members, friends, or healthcare professionals might make seniors feel embarrassed. They may also see themselves as a burden.

2. Supports Mental Well-Being

Feelings of dignity and self-worth directly impact your mental health. Giving up your independence disrupts your entire life and can lead to poor health and higher levels of anxiety and stress.

3. Improves Cognitive Abilities

The mind is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it becomes. Seniors living independently are often required to complete daily tasks and chores alone. Regular mental stimulation mitigates cognitive issues, helping older adults stay sharp for years to come.

4. Boosts Physical Strength

Lastly, older adults living independently can maintain physical strength. Running errands, cleaning the house, and attending social events all require physical movement. As the saying goes, “If you don’t use it, you lose it.”

Using their bodies daily ensures seniors maintain agility, coordination, and mobility.

How Seniors Can Maintain Their Independence

There are several steps you or your elderly loved one can take to maintain independence. Here are some tips to get you started:

Exercise Daily: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults 65 and older get at least 150 minutes of weekly exercise. Seniors should move their bodies every day. Take a walk around the block, attend an exercise class that caters to your ability levels, or watch a workout video on YouTube.
Keep Your Brain Busy: Engage in fun brain games or puzzles. Do a crossword puzzle or play sudoku as you eat breakfast. If the grandkids visit, play a stimulating board game or work on a jigsaw puzzle with them.
Hire a Caregiver: In-home caregivers can help seniors maintain their independence by assisting with cooking, light housekeeping, companionship, and transportation.

We Help Seniors Maintain Their Independence

Are you thinking of hiring an in-home caregiver? Visiting Angels of Scranton, PA, provides award-winning, personalized caregiving solutions to seniors throughout Scranton, Waverly, Pittston, and the surrounding areas of Lackawanna, Wyoming, Luzerne, and Columbia counties.

They can help you plan and prepare nutritious meals, remind you to take your medication, and assist with personal grooming.