As you age, you start to undergo different changes in your life. These changes may be related to strength, decision-making and much more. Whether you’re taking care of an older loved one or entering that stage of your journey yourself, it’s important to figure out ways to maintain autonomy. Here’s a simple guide on how to encourage independence in older adults.
1. Get Assistive Technology
Assistive technology helps older adults live a more fulfilling life. The best devices will vary depending on what kind of conditions a person starts to experience as they grow older.
Some of the more common options that can assist people from all walks of life are items like automated lighting. Home security equipment — like cameras, smart smoke alarms and doorbells — also improve people’s safety and quality of life.
2. Install Grab Bars and Handrails
Over one in four older adults fall annually, and less than 50% of them tell their doctor about the incident. Make sure you or your loved one feels safe at home by installing grab bars and handrails.
Common places to slip — like the stairs, kitchen and bathroom — are ideal spots for installation. You should also try to eliminate tripping hazards like loose rugs when possible.
3. Set Aside Select Chores
Another way to encourage independence in older adults is by giving them some chores. Many people feel more at ease and valuable when helping others by contributing to a space’s upkeep.
Consider picking relatively easy chores to avoid overexertion. Simpler tasks like washing the dishes, taking out the trash or feeding a pet are ideal.
4. Go On a Walk
Older adults need to engage in physical activity. However, they must be comfortable enough to engage in it. If you have an older loved one in your life, Invite them over for a walk — it’s okay if they decline the first time, but always leave the offer on the table.
Once they say yes, show them a good time by going around their favorite spots and buying them some brunch. If you’re an older adult yourself, enjoy a peaceful walk followed by a stop at a local cafe to catch up with a friend.
5. Set Up Social Media
Socializing is important for people’s mental and emotional health. Social media accounts can keep older adults connected with friends and family. Show your loved one the ropes of sending messages, starting a video call and sharing public posts. It’s also great to join online communities or try out some fun games.
6. Optimize Routines and Chores With Apps
Aside from social media, other smartphone apps can empower you or a loved one. Here are several apps to help an older adult become more independent:
- Grocery apps: Grocery delivery services can help older adults be independent by bringing products and essentials to their doorsteps. They can even pick alternatives for what’s out of stock themselves with just a few clicks. Get help with the heavy lifting once the delivery arrives.
- Rideshare apps: Want to visit a new place or a friend? Use rideshare services to hail a car to get you around town. These are also handy when you need to get to the hospital or pick up things at the pharmacy. You can even save all your favorite places for future adventures.
- Medication management apps: Prescription medication can be hard to keep track of, especially when the list gets longer and all medication is taken at different times. Medication management apps can help track what their user should be taking and when. You can also set up alerts for when it’s time to refill prescriptions.
7. Let Them Pick Their Clothes
What you wear is a form of self-expression that gives you a boost of confidence. Older adults should be allowed to pick their clothes and express themselves to maintain their sense of agency. Go the extra mile by cheering them to put on makeup or change up their hair if it’s what they wish to do.
8. Suggest Different Hobbies
There’s peace of mind in doing things you enjoy by yourself. Suggest different hobbies to encourage independence in older adults, such as:
- Journaling: Putting pen to paper can be a great avenue for expressing inner thoughts. Older adults can share their journey about aging and write down how their day went. It can be a good mental exercise to work on memory as well.
- Painting: It’s relaxing to just work on a painting all day, and it takes minimal physical effort. Make sure there’s enough water for the materials, and promote taking breaks from the activity throughout the day.
- Collecting music: There are fewer things better than collecting and listening to music. From finding your favorite artists’ albums to playing them through a speaker or on a record player, music brings an inherent sense of joy.
9. Have Them Organize Their Schedule
Another way to give older adults a sense of control is by putting them in charge of their schedule. What do they feel like doing today? How much time and energy are they allotting for each activity?
Assessing what type of day or activities match your rhythm and stamina can give you a sense of accountability and ownership. While you give them the freedom to choose, it’s still important to discourage them from overexerting themselves or remaining inactive if they are able to do more.
Empower Older People
It’s natural to worry about your or a loved one’s health as time goes on. Learn how to help an older adult become more independent, and follow the tips above. You’d be surprised at how liberating it is to have autonomy as you age.
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