5 Ways to Help Aging Parents Maintain Their Independence
For seniors, maintaining independence builds confidence and a sense of purpose. But while many seniors want to live as independently as possible for as long as they can, their adult children may worry about their loved one's well-being, especially when they’re living alone.
Finding the right balance between an aging parent's safety and independence can be difficult for their adult children. Fortunately, there are steps adult children can take to help their senior loved one live independently and still remain safe and healthy.
Maintaining Independence Is Essential for Healthy Aging
Adults work throughout their lives to be self-sufficient, raise responsible children, and make the right decisions. The natural course of aging changes these goals and, at the same time, can challenge a senior's ability to live independently. For example, an older parent may still view themselves as independent and self-sufficient, but their health may require attention to keep from failing.
As tempting as it is for family members to do everything for their aging loved one, however, the more appropriate approach may be to help seniors maintain independence in a safe manner. A 2020 study published in the journal Frontiers in Public Health found that interventions that encouraged senior independence help to prolong physical and mental health. Providing adult parents with as much independence as safety allows fosters their sense of well-being and slows down the physical effects of aging.
The following are five ways adult children can help maintain their senior loved one's independence.
1. Simplify Meal Preparation
Aging parents may want to prepare their own meals, but cooking on their own can be demanding. Offering to help them with the more rigorous aspects of meal preparation, like grocery shopping and cutting ingredients, can simplify the process. This way, seniors can still cook their own food without compromising their safety or taking up their energy. Pre-made meals and meal delivery services can also help ensure older adults eat healthily but maintain their independence.
2. Coordinate Transportation
Seniors may wish to continue with their social life and attend their own appointments, but they may be unable to drive. Hiring a transportation service lets senior loved ones remain independent without compromising their safety on the streets. Coordinating transportation before outings keeps them safe as they get to and from their destinations.
3. Assist with Medication Management
Many seniors want the freedom to administer their own medications. However, seniors often have more than five medications prescribed concurrently, which can make medication management confusing.
Adult children may help aging parents take their medication safely through:
- The use of automated "smart" pill organizers
- Medication delivery and auto-renewal programs
- Wireless technology that notifies seniors and family members whether a medication has been administered
- Electronic or hardcopy calendars with large print to schedule administration times
Having a list of current medications readily available also relays important information efficiently during appointments and medical emergencies.
4. Create a Senior-friendly Home Environment
Making an older parent's home more accessible improves safety and enables them to remain in their home longer. Some common home modifications are:
- Replacing traditional door knobs with lever handles, which are easier for older adults to hold
- Lowering countertops and sinks in the restroom and kitchen
- Removing slippery rugs that are fall risks
- Adding grab bars and shower chairs in the bathroom
- Widening hallways and doorways to allow for wheelchairs or walkers
- Installing a chairlift or wheelchair ramp
- Adding a home security or monitoring system
A physician or occupational therapist can offer feedback on what type of home modifications are necessary.
5. Consider In-home Care or Help
According to the National Institute on Aging, aging in place is a safe option for seniors as long as they have the support and care they need. In-home care gives adult children and aging loved ones the best of both worlds. For seniors who wish to age in place, in-home care allows them to remain in their homes. As for adult children of seniors, in-home care offers peace of mind knowing that their loved one is safe and under adequate care.
The level of assistance provided by in-home care services depends on the needs of seniors and their family members. Whether it's help with medication management, activities of daily living (ADLs), or transportation, home care services help maintain a senior's independence in a safe and supportive way.
Help Senior Loved Ones Live Independently with Senior Helpers of Ellis County
Establishing the right balance of independence and safety is hard, but Senior Helpers of Ellis County can help. We offer both companionship and reliable assistance with daily needs, like transportation and ADLs. Our team of caring and trained professionals can give you and your loved one the peace of mind you're looking for. Senior Helpers of Ellis County is proud to serve the Waxahachie, Ennis, Mansfield, Midlothian, Alvarado, and Ellis County areas. Contact us today to discuss what we can do for you and your loved one.