It can be a hard adjustment when people realize they need assistance with their daily tasks, especially for anyone who has been independent their whole life.  People want to maintain their independence while accepting assistance, too.  Otherwise, if they lose their independence, then they may lose autonomy, self-esteem, and overall well-being.  Accepting help may alter the dynamics in one’s life by making one feel a burden, but there are options to accepting forms of assistance while still being independent.

Does maintaining independence while aging help improve the lives of older people?

Many older adults need assistance, but maintaining independence helps maintain their health and well-being. From 2010 through 2050, the number of U.S. adults 65 and over will be expected to double. Most people face mobility or cognitive issues as they age.  Therefore, services will need to be available.  People can remain independent while modifying their living situation by getting assistance to achieve this goal.

Ways to stay independent – stay active and socialize

Keep moving!  Walking in your neighborhood or park helps. 20-30 minutes of daily physical activity helps people physically and mentally. In addition, exercise your mind by reading books, doing crossword puzzles, taking classes, learning new skills, or socializing.  Get involved with your local senior center, which often provides classes and a network of friends and families.  Get involved with your church or religious organization or join a bridge group, book club, knitting club, etc.  Volunteer at your local library, school, or non-profit. Loneliness can raise an older adult’s chances of premature death by 14%.  Being active and involved reduces loneliness, and maintains a healthy life, and longevity.

Stay safe

Safety is a significant factor, especially for people 65 and older.  Each year, three million emergency department visits occur due to older people falling. Each year, there are about one million fall-related hospitalizations among older adults.  In 2019, falls caused 83% of hip fracture deaths and 88% of emergency department visits and hospitalizations for hip fractures.  Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries.  While aging and illnesses cannot prevent physical decline, accidents, such as falls, can be prevented with awareness and living conditions.

Seek assistance to maintain independence.

People with health issues and a safe living environment still need assistance. People view assistance as a weakness, but it often helps them maintain independence.  Aid comes in many different forms:

• Caregivers
• Technology
• Service dogs
• Non-Profits
• Transportation companies beyond Uber and Lyft
• Professionals to help navigate the medical world and home safety

Life changes may require adjustments to remain independent.  Recognizing and accepting help keeps a person as independent and safe as possible.

Remember, maturity doesn’t mean you lose your voice.

When a person asks for assistance or help, it doesn’t mean they lose their voice.  For a person to feel independent, let them have a voice. Therefore, including a person in the conversation is vital and allows them to give their opinion.  Any decision regarding health, living arrangements, diet, exercise, etc. must include the person.  Working with seniors does not mean coercing or dictating their lives.  It’s respecting and affording them the same dignity and autonomy you would give any other adult.

Aging is not easy, so maintaining some form of independence is vital. Providing resources, assistance, and tools to help people maintain their independence helps everyone.

STAGES is a resource for the aging community.