By Lisa Gonzalez
There’s a common misconception that as one ages, one must slowly and gradually rely on others more to get by. But this doesn’t always have to be the case, especially if you still want to contribute to society in some way. Today, Senior News and Living shares some tips you can use to help you to adjust to independent living, while still being a meaningful part of your community.
Free up some space
It may be necessary to advise your senior loved one to downsize in order to free up some money for the future.
- Sort through the old to make room for the new. You may have to help your loved one ⦁ sort through their belongings so they hold onto only what is necessary.
- Consider storage if they are unsure of what to give away. This can avoid pressuring them into making decisions they may not be ready for.
- Sell valuable items online through eBay and Amazon to build up a nest egg of savings.
Starting afresh
Your loved one may still need to say goodbye to those things or places they are most familiar with, such as their home.
- Help them to get a realistic figure at which to list their home on the market.
- If the profit from the sale is good, this could make it easier to put down a down payment on a new home.
- Start looking at retirement villages and communities first so they feel more comfortable in their environment.
Help them to embrace technology
Technology can be a beneficial tool for seniors to help them navigate (literally) life in general.
- Show them the value of apps that can help make life easier for them, such as Pill Monitor and MedWatcher.
- Teach them how to find their way around with Google Maps.
- They can also use technology to stay in contact with friends and family as well as meet new people.
Make sure they relax
Moving or changing lifestyles can be stressful. Helping your loved one find ways to cope with the stress of change could help them transition into independent living more quickly.
- Show them the value of doing a hobby to help distract them in a moment of anxiety or worry about the future.
- Try not to pressure your loved one to move faster than they’re ready to, as this can give them time to process the situation.
- Assure them that you are there for them whenever they need you. This can give them the confidence they need to thrive on their own.
Encouraging your loved one to be self-sufficient is one of the greatest gifts you can give to them as they learn to make do and rely on themselves day by day.
Senior News and Living has been supporting seniors in the Oklahoma City Metro area for nearly 20 years! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.
