Striking the right balance between independence and accepting assistance is vital for seniors who want to enjoy overall health and happiness. Many seniors aspire to age gracefully and retain their independence and according to a University of Michigan report, 88 percent of a survey group of older adults ages 50 to 80 stated it’s important to age in place for as long as possible.
But as aging produces inevitable physical and mental challenges, it’s crucial for seniors to identify when support from family, friends or professional caregivers becomes essential for sustaining a high quality of life. Confronted with physical or cognitive health challenges, it can be daunting for seniors to admit the need for aid. Yet, it is imperative for seniors to ask for support when necessary to safeguard their welfare and guarantee they’re receiving suitable and compassionate care.
Even for the most self-reliant seniors, there comes a time when accepting assistance is not only wise but beneficial. While asking for help can be difficult, seniors may underestimate how willing people are to assist others because of the positive feelings they enjoy in doing so. Indeed, there are many advantages to asking for help; the five outlined here offer insights for our cherished, independent-minded seniors.
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Enhanced Safety and Peace of Mind
Independent living often comes with risks, such as falls or health emergencies, where immediate assistance is crucial. By allowing care services, technology, or family members to lend a hand, seniors can mitigate these risks.
Example: George, a spry 78-year-old, enjoyed gardening but noticed his balance wasn’t as steady. Reluctantly, he accepted his daughter’s offer to install handrails in his home. A month later, George slipped but was able to steady himself using the rails, preventing a fall and potential injury.
Many seniors who have invested in Long-Term Care insurance (LTCi) may not be aware that some policies offer benefits toward essential modifications in the home. The cost to retrofit the home with a wheelchair ramp, a roll-in shower, grab bars, and similar items may be partially or fully covered by LTCi benefits. An Amada Senior Care advisor can provide expert guidance in identifying these benefits, VA benefits for senior veterans or other forms of financial assistance. CLICK HERE to find an Amada office near you.
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Improved Health Management
Juggling medication schedules, doctor’s appointments, and dietary restrictions can be complex. Help from professionals or family ensures a higher standard of health management.
Example: Mary, with her strong-willed nature, was mismanaging her diabetes. After some convincing, she agreed to a home health aide visit twice a week. With assistance, Mary’s blood sugar levels stabilized, and her health improved.
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Access to Social Interaction
Isolation can impact seniors significantly. Accepting help often means more opportunities for social interaction, which is vital for mental and emotional health.
Example: Sam, once an avid conversationalist, found himself increasingly isolated. His reluctance to ask for help changed when he learned about a local senior transportation service. Using the service, he attends a weekly book club, engaging with peers and reigniting his social life.
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Preservation of Energy and Resources
Tasks that were once simple can become exhausting with age. Accepting help with these activities conserves energy for more enjoyable and meaningful pursuits.
Example: Helen prided herself on her spotless home. Cleaning became physically taxing, but she hesitated to ask for help. Finally, she allowed a cleaning service to take over. With her reserved energy, Helen now enjoys long walks and time with her grandchildren, rather than worrying about chores.
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The Joy of Learning and Adaptability
Seniors who welcome help learn to adapt and often discover new technologies or methods to simplify their lives, which can be both empowering and intellectually stimulating.
Example: Robert, an 82-year-old war veteran, reluctantly agreed to use a tablet to stay in touch with his far-flung family. What seemed daunting at first became a source of joy, and Robert now revels in regular video calls and sharing digital photos.
Committed to Respecting Seniors and Enhancing Their Independence
There’s no stopping the march of time and as the years advance, the inherent aspects of aging become increasingly evident. Changes in a senior’s capacity to manage certain routines is expected and encountering new obstacles is a standard element of life’s journey.
Reaching out for assistance need not symbolize a loss of independence. Instead, it represents a smart decision to enhance the quality of life, maintain safety, and possibly even discover new joys in the golden years.
At Amada Senior Care, we are committed to respecting and enhancing the independence of the senior community. We are here to support older adults and seniors, adding to your independence, not detracting from it, by offering personalized senior care services. If you’re interested in learning more about the support needed to continue living a fulfilling life with dignity, either for yourself or a loved one, please reach out. CLICK HERE to find an Amada office near you.