Growing old is something that naturally happens and is unavoidable. Sure, we can slow down the process, but ageing is something that nobody can escape no matter how hard you try. Eventually, we’ll reach a stage where we can no longer support ourselves and we’ll need to consider assisted living or moving into a care home so we don’t put ourselves at risk. It’s a grim thought, but it’s something that we need to plan for eventually.
However, it is possible to stay independent for longer. There are many seniors that have completely defied the stereotype of ageing and either look young, have ridiculous hobbies that would scare even a young adult, or are stronger than most people could imagine. These seniors have aged gracefully and have the bodies and health to prove it, so what’s stopping you from preparing yourself the same way?
Age is just a number
Remember that your age is really just a number. Everyone ages at different rates and assuming you can keep your body in top condition, you really shouldn’t need to move into a care home or request a carer unless you suffer an accident.
What really matters is how we take care of our bodies, so engage in regular exercise, look after your mental health and visit the doctors on a regular basis to detect issues as soon as possible. There are many services, such as Spine Institute Northwest, that can help you detect problems in your body thanks to full body scans. These can pick up even the most minute of problems. Once discovered, you can make the appropriate changes to your diet or fitness plan so you won’t injure yourself or aggravate the condition further.
Changing the home to fit your needs
Activities such as walking up the stairs can become bothersome if you’re a senior with weak knees or mobility issues.
Getting on and off the toilet can also become a problem if you have mobility issues. That’s why we have inventions such as stair lifts and toilets for seniors that come with handles or even a motorised seat that can be raised to suit your height or needs. By designing your home around your conditions and needs, you can stay independent for longer even if you’re suffering from a physical condition.
Use technology
With so many advances in technology, it’s important to learn how to use basic devices such as a smartphone, tablet and even a computer or laptop. With this basic knowledge, you’ll find it far easier to learn new technologies when they’re eventually released.
Technology can help you live in your home for longer because it allows you to contact loved ones while being miles away, it allows you to call for emergency assistance when needed and movies, books and games are easily accessible which can help keep your brain healthy.
There are also medication reminders and even dispensers that can be installed in your home. With so much technology available, it’s a good investment to learn how to use it all if you want to stay independent for longer.