When asked, most seniors list loss of independence as one of the biggest concerns they have about growing older. No one wants to let go of making their own decisions or having control over their lives.
But aging doesn’t need to mean a loss of autonomy. Although not entirely in your control, there are still several actions you can take to keep as healthy as possible, which will greatly impact your ability to remain independent.
5 top tips for seniors’ independence
Consider these suggestions to proactively help you remain independent.
Eat a healthy diet: minimize processed foods, sugar and snacks and focus instead on increasing your servings of fresh vegetables and fruits, whole grains, nuts and legumes.
Get enough sleep: Find the amount of sleep your body needs and get it nightly. People often borrow from their sleep when they need more hours but it’s detrimental to health.
Take your medications as prescribed: Understand the purpose of the prescriptions you’re taking. If you have questions or concerns, ask your doctor. Ensure you take all medications as prescribed and on time.
Keep your medical appointments: Don’t skip your check-ups or follow-up appointments. Illnesses or conditions are easier to manage when addressed early. Be an active participant.
Keeping your body and mind in shape plays a large role in influencing your ability to remain independent.
Maintain a regular exercise routine: Aim for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate or above aerobic activity.
Work your muscles: Add in weight bearing exercises to build muscle mass, helping to prevent falls.
Manage chronic conditions: Neglect can greatly affect both your body and brain health.
Keep your mind stimulated: Participate in intellectual activities, play games, take a class or teach one.
Be social: Spend time with friends and family and stay connected with your community.
Manage your stress: You can’t eliminate it completely but try exercise, relaxation techniques and having a positive attitude.
Many seniors will tell you the best advice is to prepare for what the future might hold. Try to look down the road a bit and see if there are steps you can take today that will make tomorrow easier. Making a plan ahead of time goes a long way toward keeping you independent and in control.
A few examples include – if you see the day coming when you will no longer be able to drive and don’t live where there are alternative transportation options, you may want to consider a move. Or, if you are single and live alone, what services are available in your area if you someday will need a little help with the daily tasks of living?
One mistake that older adults often make is a hesitancy to ask for assistance. Instead, you should realize that receiving help, especially with basic tasks, can make continuing to live an independent life possible.
Is home maintenance becoming more than you can handle? Are you finding it more of a challenge to keep up with repairs or landscaping? Find help. Maybe driving in traffic is becoming something you’d rather avoid but you don’t want to miss out on activities. Research what options are available.
Maybe it’s time for you to enjoy the rewards of your hard work of career and raising children and take steps to make your life easier.
Keeping up with a house, especially one that may have more space than you need, can be tiring. Ask yourself if this is the right space for you to age-in-place? Will it require renovations?
If it’s becoming more difficult to get together with friends and family, consider how you can meet new people and share your experiences. It’s time to have more fun in your life.
How an independent living community can help seniors maintain independence
Retirees looking forward to an easier but more fulfilling lifestyle often consider moving into an independent living community. Why? Just consider how much easier and enriched your life might be:
Opportunities to meet and make new friends: Making friends is almost guaranteed with the many options to meet your new neighbors.
Maintenance-free lifestyle: It’s all taken care of – exterior, interior and grounds.
A monthly calendar of activities: You’re bound to find something of interest with so many options to choose from.
A fitness center: It’s easy to stay in shape with the equipment and classes right outside your door.
Activities to keep cognitively fit: Take advantage of the games, stimulating conversations and social activities.
Dining options: It’s your choice – you can either cook in your own full-sized kitchen or enjoy the on-site possibilities.
Scheduled transportation: You can hang up the keys with scheduled transportation to medical appointments, shopping or entertainment.
Ingleside at King Farm Independent Living
You won’t lose your independence if you choose to make Ingleside at King Farm Independent Living your new home. In fact, we believe you’ll realize you’re now experiencing the best of both worlds – an independent lifestyle with all the conveniences and benefits of community life.
You’ll discover our activities, social events, fitness center, delicious dining options and other first-class amenities to be everything you need to support your wellness goals.
You’ll find your private home offers open and inviting spaces, walk-in closets and well-equipped kitchens. You’ll have the choice of the floorplan that works best for you. You’re also encouraged to personalize your home so it will be a unique expression of your own style.
Our well-planned community has been created to provide all the possibilities you’re looking for:
Maintenance-free living
Staffed fitness center
Indoor heated pool and spa
Cultural Arts Center
New library
Art studio
Game room
Classes, clubs and programs
Meditation space and Yoga studio
Spa/salon with massage room
Spiritual, musical and theatrical programs
Along with scheduled transportation to medical appointments, shopping, concerts and other events, you’ll have easy access to the shuttle system that loops to the Metro as well as walking paths that lead to The King Farm Village Center, just a few blocks away.
Please visit our website or call (240) 414-8557 if you have any questions or would like to schedule a personalized tour today.