There are five things seniors can do as they age to ensure that they can live independently for as long as possible:
1) Seniors have been known to feel better, live longer and remain in their own homes for a longer time as long as they are physically active. There are four important types of exercises that seniors need: a) Endurance activities (walking, swimming or riding a bike). These activities build "staying power" and improve heart health and the circulatory system. b) Age related muscle loss can be minimized by a regular program of strengthening exercises. c) Seniors can keep their bodies limber and flexible with a program of stretching exercises d) Many falls can be prevented with a an exercise program that includes balance exercises Many experts believe that following a program for physical fitness yields the best results. Diabetes and heart disease can be prevented or delayed with a program of regular exercise. It also has been known to reduce arthritis pain, anxiety and depression. All these benefits add up to helping seniors to stay independent, thereby delaying the need for assisted living.
2) Solid, consistent mental routines have also demonstrated that they can help to keep seniors sharp and help them to stay independent. And yet, there is not nearly as much focus today on mental exercises as there is on physical exercises. The ability to perform activities of daily living has been shown to improve with a program of brain activities. As people age, they often challenge their brain less frequently. There's a great deal of truth in the old adage "If you don't use it, you lose it" and that certainly applies to our brains. Mental sharpness cannot be maintained if it is no longer utilized. The good news is that exercising the brain can start at any time, it's never too late. Our brains have an amazing ability to grow and expand. Seniors have a better chance of independence and improved lifestyles when they challenge their brains regularly.
3) Incidents of depression, dementia and Alzheimer's can be minimized by socializing with other people on a regular basis. Seniors today spend a great deal of time alone, and don't always make the effort to socialize with others. There are senior centers most everywhere, and yet many of the seniors who could benefit from their services don't ever step foot in a senior center. Local senior centers offer programs and services like bingo, crafts, fitness classes, day trips, computer classes, informational speakers and health screenings. In addition, they often offer lunch. Perhaps the senior in your life needs to be encouraged before they will go to a senior center for the first time. You might offer to go with them for an activity and a low cost lunch. Hopefully, they will see that socializing with other seniors and participating in the activities will make their life more meaningful and enjoyable.
4) A medical alarm system can be yet another way to help seniors stay in your own homes longer. Help can be on the way with a push of a button, which is comforting to both the seniors and the families who love them. Medic alert systems have been keeping seniors independent for decades. They help seniors live their lives with dignity in their own housing. Constant monitoring on part of their children is not needed when the seniors use the medic alert system. If they should experience a fall, chest pains, or any other emergency, they can just push the switch and help will be on its way.
5) The privilege of driving their personal automobile is often lost by many seniors. Unless they can learn to utilize public transportation, they may need to resort to assisted living. Luckily, there are many public transportation services available to help seniors get to church, grocery stores, shopping centers and doctor's offices without driving on their own. Utilizing these senior transportation services can be very helpful for seniors who want to maintain their independence.
These five elements working together can greatly improve the ability of an elderly person to delay the need for assisted living.
Janine Sanderstine is an advocate for senior health and well-being. Seniors who want to learn more about assisted living facilities or how to know when it's time for assisted living can visit her website to learn more.
