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February is National Senior Independence Month, a time to check in on your older loved ones and help them plan for the future.
One of the greatest factors on the quality of life for seniors is their personal freedom. By looking ahead and anticipating the lifestyle adjustments that will be needed, they can safely carry on living the life they’re used to.
Help yourself or your loved ones maintain independence with age with these helpful tips:
1. Make your home a safe zone
As someone ages, it’s important to upgrade their living space accordingly to avoid unwanted injuries and issues. By preemptively making improvements to their home, they can avert the problems that come with things like loose railings, uneven floors, or jammed doors.
Once those types of things are fixed, the focus can be shifted to adding items that will help ease their day to day life. Additions like wall bars in the shower and bathroom, a chair lift for the stairs, or an automatic lock system on the doors can make all the difference in maneuvering around the house.
2. Become familiar with technology
With the constant development of technology, it can be hard to keep up with at any age. However, technology can be their best friend and a key player in being self-sufficient in older age.
Basic devices, like a computer and cell phone, can keep them connected to the outside world while also serving as a vital lifeline during emergencies. Because most older people don’t keep a phone on them at all times, adding portable phones to the rooms they spend the most time in would be a helpful improvement.
3. Utilize your resources
There comes a point in most people’s lives where they could use some help, no matter how independent they are. Accepting help from others can relieve pressure and keep them healthier and happier in older age.
At SE Texas ER & Hospital, we look out for the senior citizens in our community. That’s why we have a partnership with TotalCare2U, a localized medical practice that offers at-home primary care and house calls.
Our group of clinicians understands that their visits might be the only human interaction their patients frequently receive. Because of that, we focus on building relationships with our patients and providing compassionate and comprehensive care in their own environment.
If your loved one is in need of chronic or transitional care, you can rest assured they’re in good hands with our TotalCare2U staff. For more information about the services we provide, visit our website.
Warning Signs
If you’re worried a friend or family member should not be living alone, review these warning signs from Assisted Living.
Signs an older adult may be unsafe living alone:
- Damage on cars or the house
- Disorientation
- Financial issues
- Poor hygiene
- Frequent injuries
- Missed appointments
- Poor nutrition
- Spoiled food
- Unopened mail
- Aggression
AT SE Texas ER & Hospital, we are equipped to handle any medical issue at all ages, but we pride ourselves on the attentive care our highly trained staff offers elderly patients. For any nasty falls, broken bones, breathing problems, or other areas of concern, we are here to help.
Disclaimer: As a service to our readers, SE Texas ER & Hospital and Nutex Health state no content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinicians.
Nutex Health, Inc supports you and your family’s health. You can depend on SE Texas ER & Hospital, or any of our concierge-level, medical facilities to deliver the emergency care you deserve, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
