Celebrating Senior Independence Month

February is National Senior Independence Month! This is a perfect time of the year to think about your current lifestyle and how you can maintain your independence for as long as possible. With a little planning and forethought, there are things that you can do to maintain your independence as you age. Keep reading to discover how, now and in the future.

3 Ways Seniors Can Maintain Independence

1. Stay Physically and Socially Active

Staying physically active and socially connected is beneficial to older adults in many ways. Studies show that exploring new friendships and hobbies, and maintaining a regular exercise schedule is key to living a longer, more independent life. Staying socially connected helps ward off feelings of isolation and stress, while physical activity keeps your heart healthy and improves your circulation.

If approved by your doctor, there are several low impact exercises that you can do to improve your mobility and strength, including yoga, swimming and walking.

2. Keep Your Home Safe

Keeping safety first is one of the most essential ways a senior can live independently. Physical ailments and injuries can significantly impact a senior’s ability to move about freely. Each year, one in every four adults over age 65 will fall, and falls are the leading cause of both fatal and non-fatal injuries in adults over 65.

There are several safety measures you can take to reduce your risk of falling:

• Avoid activities that require ladders or step stools.
• Use handrails when going up or down stairs.
• Install safety grab bars around tubs and showers.
• Remove rugs or make sure they are fully secured to the floor to avoid tripping over them.

During National Senior Independence Month, take some time to look around your home and determine where you can minimize your risk of a fall or accident.

3. Consider Mobility and Assistive Devices

Mobility devices, also known as assistive devices, are tools used to help people with tasks they may not be able to do otherwise. For example, a hearing aid is an assistive device because it helps combat the effects of hearing loss.

Canes, walkers, and wheelchairs are devices that are designed to help with mobility. Mobility is closely tied to independence, as it allows us to travel, meet friends, and generally go about as we please. Devices that aid with mobility help us maintain a sense of control and also help us avoid feeling lonely because we are more likely to attend events and activities that keep us socially connected.

Maintain Your Independence and Freedom at Episcopal SeniorLife Communities

Today’s seniors have several options for healthy aging and maintaining as much independence for as long as possible. Senior living communities offer a great balance between living an independent lifestyle and making use of all the convenient services and amenities you could ever need for carefree, low maintenance living. From an independent living apartment or patio home to assisted living support with daily care available whenever you need it, our communities are designed to help you live life on your terms.

We invite you to come visit ESLC to learn more about the variety of diverse living options available. Contact us today to schedule a personal tour of one of our senior living communities near you.