The modern elderly community is becoming more Independent than the older adults of past generations and this means that more 65 and older citizens are opting to stay at home and live solitarily in their own homes. This can be a great thing for retired adults looking to maintain their self-sufficient lifestyles but there can also be concerns. As we age, we are more prone to falls and other seemingly simple, yet hazardous situations and that is why we’ve created our list of the top tips for maintaining senior independent living.

Work to Prevent Falls

While you may not be experiencing falls now, it is always a good idea to prepare and prevent situations that could cause falls before they happen. This can help maintain independent living longer as well as offer the peace of mind that comes from being prepared.

• Keep walking areas cleared of clutter and ensure that areas are always well lit. This also means not having cords, books or other seemingly harmless items out to be tripped over.
• Install handrails or grab bars in areas that may be tricky. This can mean stairways, the bathroom and even ramp/slight inclines inside or outside your home.
• Consider getting a Rescue Alert medical alert system. You may not need it now, but these systems are ideal for helping independent elderly maintain solitary through services that call the proper people should you have fallen and not be able to reach the phone or if there is an intruder.
• Wear sturdy shoes with non-skid bottoms to prevent sliding on kitchen floors or slippery surfaces.
• Use a cane or walker, if needed, for extra stability.
• Place rubber mats in the bathroom or areas where water may cause slippery surface area.

Stay Active

To maintain an independent lifestyle, it is important to stay Active. Adults who actively participate in community activities, exercise often and live healthy lifestyles are proven to remain independent as well as live long than those who decide to remain inactive.

• Attend a community center class. This helps you bond with other elderly adults, cultivate a hobby and keeps you active while being independent.
• Walk or swim weekly. Walking is the most common exercise of older Americans but water aerobics or just walking laps in the pool can ease pressure on joints while keeping mobility and keeping senior citizens in the best shape possible.
• Surround yourself with others. Attend family and friend functions and be as active in your personal community as much as possible. It’s proven that elderly adults who encircle themselves with causes and those they love, live independently and longer.

Independent Living

Staying active and preventing falls are the best things you can do for yourself while wishing to remain independent. Hopefully these tips have helped and we’d love to hear your comments on what else you’ve done to continue living independently.

Written by Amy Trenton