After your kids have all grown up and made their own lives, the day will come when they start to question if you should still be living on your own. While we’re sure you’d love nothing more than to live with your kids and help take care of your grandbabies, there’s something about remaining independent that is so enticing.
This is especially true when someone else might be the one trying to take that independence away from you. If you’re determined to continue living at home well into your senior years, you’ll want to follow these tips to ensure that happens.
Stay Active and Healthy
If your goal is to remain independent, the most important thing to start doing is staying active and healthy. That means working out regularly and eating foods that are good for you. Not only will this keep you healthy, but it will show your kids that you’re still trying. Individuals who look like they’ve given up on life are the ones that usually have to move in with their kids.
Take Care of Medical Issues on Your Own
Unfortunately, no matter how hard you try, medical problems will arise as you age. When they do, you should make an effort to take care of them on your own. For example, if you need to wear an ostomy pouch for a while, learn how to empty it on your own. Refusing to take care of yourself or constantly complaining about it will make your children think you can’t handle being on your own anymore.
Remove Falling Hazards
One thing many people worry about when their elderly parents live on their own is household accidents. If you live on your own and fall down, no one will be there to help you or call an ambulance. That’s why removing the possibility of a fall is a good idea.
If you can, move to a house without any stairs. Also, try installing hand railings in places where falls are most common, like the kitchen and bathroom. At the very least, you should invest in a device that alerts someone when you’ve fallen and can’t get back up.
Invite Friends Over Regularly
Since the fear of you getting hurt stems from the fact that you’re alone, another thing you can do is make friends and invite them over regularly. This will help keep your kids’ minds at ease when they know that someone might be around to check on you. Plus, having friends is a good way to stay active and prove to your kids that you still need your independence.
Hire a Live-In Nurse if Needed
In the end, if you really need help from another person, hiring a live-in nurse is a good option that allows you to continue living at home as a senior. Not only will they be able to help you with medical needs, but they can drive you around and run errands for you. Plus, they know how to give you your space on those days when you want to feel more independent.
