Mental Health Moment

Seniors Claim Independence By Remaining At Home

What is independence? The Oxford Dictionary defines it as being free from outside control; not depending on another's authority. What a powerful concept! The human will often rises up to meet challenge and, at times, resists receiving assistance.

The pandemic has changed the face of how we cope with challenges – or has it? Perhaps what may have changed is our strengthened resolve to persevere and adapt. After all, survival is dependent on our ability to adapt to change and find a way to improvise and overcome hardship.

According to a survey by AARP, what COVID-19 hasn't affected is seniors’ desire to stay in their homes as they age, according to a new AARP "Home and Community Preferences Survey." Data shows that 77 percent of adults 50 and older want to remain in their homes for the long term — a number that has been consistent for more than a decade.

A third of all poll participants said they would need to modify their current residence so that they or a loved one could continue to live there if they had physical limitations.

• 79 percent said they would need to modify bathrooms with grab bars or no-step showers.

• 71 percent said their home has inside and outside accessibility issues.

• 61 percent said they would need an emergency response system.

• 48 percent said they would need smart-home devices, like a voice activated home assistant or a doorbell camera.

Some would only consider leaving their home for one that allows them to age independently, particularly if it cost less or was physically easier to maintain. Some older adults may want to move but can’t, says Linna Zhu, a research associate at the Housing Finance Policy Center at the Urban Institute.

“Freedom is the oxygen of the soul.” -Moshe Dayan

The importance of being independent is twofold for seniors. Independence is sometimes the only thing seniors may feel they can control as certain aspects of their life change with age. Additionally, maintaining independence promotes a sense of achievement that for many seniors generates a great sense of self-worth and well-being.

Often, seniors are able to live independently with little or no help at all. However, some need assistance due to physical or mental limitations that come with aging. In these cases, living home alone does not become a lost cause. Home health care companies can assist seniors in maintaining independence for as long as possible. Caregivers are often helpful in assisting clients with activities of daily living, such as grocery shopping, light cleaning, cooking and other activities that enable the aging population to live at home independently.

In order to maintain true levels of independence, it is important for seniors to be involved in their own care. Independence for older seniors who may have cognitive or physical impairments is still possible, albeit more complex to determine in which areas they need assistance. Family members and/or caregivers should be available to assist with performing household tasks, as well as engage in other activities, such as playing games, going for walks, eating meals together or simply engaging seniors in lively conversations. Keep in mind that sometimes “help” may be perceived as imposing control. We should always be cognizant and respectful of their wishes and temper that with the reality of what may be practical or feasible.

Independence gives seniors a sense of purpose. They have opportunities for achievement, can contribute to the lives of their family, friends, and neighbors, and enjoy activities that they've always done. The chance to set and reach goals has a big impact, even if they seem small.

Encouraging an aging loved one to be independent can enhance his or her quality of life and cognitive, social, and physical skills. A trained family physician can often be helpful in making determinations for lifestyle as their needs change.

Remember that respectful listening is key. When our parents age and may become less able to take care of themselves, let’s be aware that their need to keep some of their independence is vital. Above all else, remind them that they are always loved and supported.

Beth Douglas is a marketing communications professional and an advocate for seniors – especially those who are living with dementia-related illness.