We all strive to be independent. And the desire to live independently with dignity doesn't diminish with age. In fact, a lot of aging retirees are proud of and enjoy their independence. While living life independently can come with challenges as we age, small assistance such as homecare services, can help seniors maintain independence in their own homes.
These services will assist in meeting needs while encouraging independence. If you or a loved one prefer to retain autonomy, homecare services might be worth considering.
Why Seniors Need Their Independence
Seniors spent most of their lives independently. Whether it's making decisions, working jobs, and raising their families, they’ve done it on their own. That's why losing independence may feel scary and disheartening.
But as you or your loved one progresses through retirement, the natural effects of aging can make independent living challenging. But with a little assistance, seniors can maintain their freedom at home!
Promoting independence for seniors will positively impact their physical and mental health. Here are other reasons for promoting independence:
Feeling in Control of Their Life
For seniors who require extra support, it's still possible to maintain autonomy. In fact, the assistance of a companion can encourage self-sufficiency.
For example, a home care professional can provide support with household chores. This gives aging retirees confidence to perform light tasks. As a result, seniors will have a sense of control in their home.
Promote a Sense of Achievement
In-home senior care providers will not do everything. Instead, these professionals provide assistance while encouraging seniors to be involved in daily activities. In doing so, they encourage retirees to stay active.
Encouraging independence for seniors will help them feel a sense of accomplishment. For example, being there just for support so they can still go to the grocery store on their own without calling friends or family, will boost and maintain confidence.
Homecare assistance provides these services and more to enable aging retirees to live independent lives.
Ways Homecare Assistance Promotes Independence for Seniors
Encourage Collaboration in Daily Tasks
As you or your loved one advance in age, some assistance can make living independently comfortable and safe.
In-home senior care providers offer support while encouraging collaboration. These professionals will assist seniors in activities like laundry, changing bed linens, or carrying grocery bags. But they will also encourage retirees to participate where possible.
When seniors are encouraged to participate, it will promote a sense of self-sufficiency.
Assistance in Going Out
Retirees may find it challenging to go out and about. Some may have difficulties with mobility. Others may not be able to drive around town. These instances may contribute to a loss of independence in seniors and feeling of being trapped on an island at home.
With the assistance of a home care professional, getting around will be much easier. These professionals can assist you or your aging loved one when going to appointments. They can also provide companionship for social activities.
Seniors can still enjoy lunch outings, day trips, and other activities.
Continue to Do Activities They Love
Many seniors experience loneliness and depression. One of the many reasons is the inability to take part in community activities. Retirees may feel frustrated if they can no longer do what they used to love.
Seniors who participate in social activities enjoy better physical and mental health. In-home senior care providers offer companionship, respect, and the care they deserve.
For example, if you or a loved one enjoys playing chess. An in-home senior care provider can join in such activities. They can also read books, share stories, or go with seniors while taking long walks.
Companionship offered by homecare professionals will encourage seniors to participate in new hobbies. As a result, it helps prevent feelings of isolation. Here are a few activities that aging retirees can enjoy:
Light exercise classes
Museum outings
Sightseeing trips
Book clubs
Bingo
Ensure Safety and Security at Home
The safety and security of seniors are one of the main concerns of family members. And it's completely understandable.
According to statistics, one out of four aging retirees falls each year. That said, slippery floors and stairs can pose safety risks for seniors.
The assistance of a homecare professional is beneficial in keeping elderly loved ones safe in their home. They will assist in creating a safe and comfortable environment. In doing so, seniors can navigate their home independently yet safely.
If you or a loved one requires assistance in walking, the services of a home health aide will prove to be beneficial. They can also assist with mobility devices such as wheelchairs or walkers.
Identifying Homecare Services Best Suited for Seniors
With a little support, aging retirees can maintain their independence. Encouraging seniors to be involved in their own care has also proven to be beneficial. It fosters a sense of self-sufficiency and accomplishment.
Are you considering in-home care services for yourself or for an aging loved one?
It's important to identify the level of assistance you require. Home care services differ in scope and services. So take a pen and paper and write down your preferences. Note the specific tasks you think you'll need support with.
Common home senior care assistance can include:
Routine housekeeping. This includes maintaining the cleanliness and safety of the home.
Assistance with meal planning and preparation
Doing the laundry and changing bed linens
Companionship
Daily and weekly coordination of activities and appointments
Home care professionals can provide assistance for approximately 4-8 hours per day. But for elderlies who require 24 hours support, having two home care shifts may prove to be beneficial.
A reputable home health agency will perform a complementary in-home care assessment done by a registered nurse. With this assessment, you can decide the most beneficial homecare services for you or your senior loved one.
Hiring professionals from Unified Pledge comes with the following advantages:
Level II FBI background checks of all staff
Driving history checks
Companions, health aides, LPNs are our direct employees and not independent contractors
Constant communication to patients, family, and care team
Registered Nurse supervision is ongoing with every care plan
Contact us today for a FREE consultation by a Supervisory Nurse at 561-910-8770.