Ways to Make Living Independently Easier for Older Adults

Many seniors find it hard to perform everyday activities as they age. However, the ability to take care of themselves and maintain independence is a priority. Implementing approaches that help seniors while still allowing them a sense of control can enrich their lives.

Of course, family members often step in to help, but sometimes busy schedules mean that no one is available to assist. Fortunately, there are plenty of solutions that can help adults practice active aging and improve their quality of life with self-reliance.

Medical alert systems, like fall detection alarms and emergency contact devices, help reinforce security by relaying medical feedback and creating alerts to the caretaker for assistance. Medication dispensing devices can eliminate overdoses by organizing medicines. They also act as reminders to take the required doses. Smartphone apps are also useful to ensure medication is taken on time.

Security-enhancing features around the house go a long way in ensuring the safety of seniors. Home alarm systems give older adults much-needed peace of mind by allowing them to call for help whenever they feel vulnerable to intruders. Consider smart home devices that are controllable by voice for increased convenience, and to minimize the use of gadgets with small switches or buttons.

Companionship of any kind helps boost brain health and the general mood of an aging population. A pet can decrease loneliness and provide unconditional love to seniors. However, taking care of animals may not be easy for someone who isn’t completely mobile or is at risk of falling. That’s why companion pets are a thoughtful gift idea for an older friend or family member who lives alone. Companion pets are plush, battery-operated pets that provide an almost realistic animal experience without the need for special care or feeding. Lifelike and responsive to touch and motion, these devices move and make noises like a real pet.

For a real pet experience, you can apply for pet therapy sessions from nonprofit organizations. These opportunities are a good alternative that provides seniors with active pet companionship without incurring the responsibilities.

The risk of falling increases with age, but there are a few adjustments you can make to minimize the risk. The first step toward creating a safe and functional environment is to discard items that hinder the flow of movement between rooms. Loose rugs, low tables and poor lighting are good examples. You can add helpful aids, such as smart lights that sense motion. The most common areas for falls are the bathroom, kitchen and bedroom, so focus on brightening up these zones.

For bath safety, install a rail next to the toilet and in the bath or shower area to help with support. You can include a walk-in tub, shower seat and other bathing aids to ensure your older loved one can take care of their hygiene independently. Become well-versed in more tips for bathroom safety to make sure you cover all the bases.

Placing nonskid pads on the ground provides a cost-effective alternative to replacing smooth flooring to help the elderly maintain balance while walking. Place items like shoes on stools or low shelves to prevent too much bending. Lower high pantry shelves to lessen stretching distances to reach items.

At some point, walking and driving may become difficult for seniors. Providing the necessary movement aids is a great help in maintaining independence.

Walking canes are the most basic walking aids and help reduce body weight on the legs to maintain balance. They are handy for crowded places and walking short distances. Plus, their compact size makes them easy to tuck away when using public transportation. Some are even foldable and can fit inside a shopping bag when not in use.

Quad sticks have four feet extending from the base to provide a maximum surface area for enhanced stability and support. For more support, walkers and rollators can transfer about 64% of bodyweight to the frames that are gripped by the hands. Many models also include a seat for resting and a basket to carry items.

Wheelchairs are ideal for anyone who can’t walk very far and those who experience sudden mobility loss. For added convenience, consider electric wheelchairs or mobility scooters that allow seniors to move around without assistance.

Things to make life easier for the elderly revolve around health, companionship, security and mobility. Helping seniors achieve independence involves a few modifications to the home and occasional one-on-one help. With the right home health care aids, you'll be on the right track toward helping your senior loved ones maintain their independence.