Many older adults want to remain in their homes as long as possible because, among other reasons, they want to maintain their independence. Yet, as the years pass and the normal effects of aging occur, it’s common for a senior’s world to grow smaller. Fewer friends are around, family members are busy, and taking care of a home becomes difficult or even impossible. That’s why making the move to a senior living community can be such an ideal option—it can open the door to independence as never before.
Senior Living: Independence and More
No one wants to give up their independence, so it’s important to choose a lifestyle that helps older adults stay in control so they can fully enjoy every minute. Senior living is one solution. Here are some of the ways it can help you or a loved one stay in charge.
A design that is dedicated to your well-being. Living at home might feel comfortable, but it also can harbor some risks. Slippery rugs, loose railings on stairways, pots left boiling on a stove—normal, everyday things can pose a threat. In contrast, everything in a senior living community is centered on the health and wellness of the residents. Details such as wider hallways, safety features in bathrooms, ramps instead of stairs, and abundant lighting help residents move about safely and with reduced chance of falling or injuries.
When you feel confident in your surroundings, you’re more apt to stay active and engaged, and you can maintain your independence longer.
Health monitoring can help you stay healthy. It’s hard to feel independent and strong when you are worrying about what you would do should you catch the flu or develop a serious disease. When you are living on your own, you might miss the symptoms that, if caught early enough, could be easily treated. In a senior living community, you have the reassurance that a professional staff is on duty keeping an eye on you, and they will most likely spot any changes in your health that cause concern.
In addition, senior living also offers the advantage of a strong focus on wellness, which usually includes regular health assessments such as blood pressure checks. Knowing there is assistance available if you should have a concern helps you feel independent and in control.
Socializing brings multiple benefits to your life. Feeling lonely and left out is not only depressing, but it’s also very bad for your health. The CDC reports that social isolation can increase a person’s risk of premature death from all causes. It can also increase the risk for dementia, and it can lead to depression and anxiety. In short, feeling isolated can make a person withdraw from the world. In contrast, when you are boosted by the company of good friends, life takes on a whole new meaning. Socializing with others and making new acquaintances brightens your mood, gives you purpose, and inspires the belief that you can take on whatever lies ahead!
One place where you can find a plethora of companions who share your zest for life is senior living. Being around friends can strengthen the immune system, sharpen memory and increase longevity. And remember, leaning on others for support is okay. It doesn’t mean you lack independence. We look to others for support our entire lives, and it is okay to continue doing so in our golden years.
Freedom from home maintenance. You might not even realize how much mental and physical energy you spend on keeping up a home, and how it can restrict your independence until you are completely free of all the responsibilities. A leaky roof, burst pipes, hanging gutters, loose stair rails, torn window screens, leaves that have to be raked, lawns that need mowing—the list goes on and on and on. Imagine how freeing it would be to toss that list in the wastebasket and instead, welcome the possibilities of each new day!
More and more older adults embrace the idea of a carefree lifestyle as they approach retirement, and senior living is an excellent option. Daily worries, home upkeep, and housekeeping are all completed by an attentive staff. So, instead of waiting on a repairman to show up, you can enjoy the freedom and the fun that comes from having all the perks of a resort and the resources needed to live your best life.
Taking you where you need to go. If you’re like many seniors, you’ve driven millions of miles in your life, or at least it feels that way. Taking children to school and doctor’s appointments, driving to the grocery store, picking up a spouse or friend from the airport, trying to get to work on time—it can be stressful in the best of conditions. Aging can add to that stress, with changes in vision and reaction time. The thought of rush hour traffic can keep you at home and make you feel dependent on others.
But what if transportation was readily available? Scheduled transportation to the physician, to the theater with friends, to a special outing on a beautiful day, or to the grocery store for everything you need would open up your world again! Scheduled transportation is one of the many perks of senior living, and it is one many seniors relish. No longer would you have to rely on a friend or family member helping you get somewhere—now, you are an honored passenger!
Having a purpose. Nothing boosts a sense of independence more than having a purpose, a reason to get up each morning and greet the day. Living in a community setting such as senior living offers you that experience. You have an invitation to engage and connect with all that is happening around you, knowing friends are waiting to greet you and new adventures are right around the corner. Activities, classes, events, parties, volunteering, celebrations, and more help you feel connected and part of a community, knowing you play an important role. You feel confident. You feel independent. And it feels good!
At Clearwater Living, we believe the vitality and balance of life derives from purposeful engagement and the pursuit of optimal health. Residents are encouraged to pursue their passions and a lifestyle of wellness through our six dimensions of living. Our exclusive environment strives to inspire each resident in mind, body and spirit for exceptional wellbeing. We call it Empowered Living.
Is it the right time for senior living? Learn more about which options might be right for your family with this quick 4-5 minute survey. Contact us to learn more about Clearwater Living.