From the moment you are born, you will strive to be independent. It’s natural and parents generally encourage it. After all, it’s your life and you’re free to do what you want with it. After a lifetime of being independent, it can be difficult to let it go and rely on others. That’s why so many older adults try to stay in their own homes for as long as possible. Independence is important.
Unfortunately, as you mature it can be harder to maintain that independence. Medical and physical conditions can limit your ability to look after yourself, forcing many older adults to move into assisted living centres or something similar.
However, the good news is that it’s often possible to stay in your own home for longer, you just need the right aids.
Support Network
If you are living by yourself then it’s crucial you have a good support network. This involves having someone that can check in on you daily to ensure everything is okay. They should be able and eager to spend time with you as this maintains your social skills.
Alongside this, you’ll need someone that you can get hold of in an emergency. Hopefully, you’ll never need them, but it’s good to know you can call someone if you need to.
Comfort
A critical part of remaining independent is having the right comfort aids. This starts with investing in the best elderly chairs on the market. These chairs won’t just give you ergonomic support. They will also help you to get up and down from your chair without an issue.
The same rule applies to your bed. It’s time to invest in one that can be moved electronically, making it much easier to get in and out of bed. These simple aids can make a big difference in how comfortable you feel at home.
Safety Features
There is an array of safety features worth adding to your home. The most obvious are safety rails in the bathroom and other key areas where you are most at risk of slipping over. Rails give you something to hold onto and the confidence to move around your home.
Alongside this, you can add a stairlift, if you have stairs. This will make it easier and safer to move between floors. It’s also a good idea to invest in a shower seat and perhaps clearly mark any trip or safety hazards.
Safety features also include adding an alarm system to your home. This will help you feel safe at night and, if you choose a smart alarm, your loved ones can easily check in with you regarding any issues.
Sensor Lights
One of the most difficult things at night is finding the light switch! Everyone struggles even though you know where it is. To eliminate this issue simply add some sensor lights. The lighting can be dim to aid movement without blinding you. But, it will help to ensure you don’t trip and it comes on the moment you move.
It’s simple things like this that make a difference and every older adult should invest in them.