In the last few decades, the life expectancy of the world population has continued to increase. In 2019 it was estimated that the global life expectancy was 72.9 years. This is a higher figure than was present in any of the developed countries back in 1950. It should be recognized that this figure takes a worldwide view and includes developing countries that tend to have lower average life expectancies. As life expectancies increase there is a resultant need for facilities to exist that serve an increasingly elderly global population. When people age, they may develop health problems or may experience reductions in mobility due to their advancing years. However, it should be recognized that old age does not necessarily have to lead to a loss of independence. This article explains three key ways in which the elderly can seek to maximize their independence.
Adopt a healthy lifestyle
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle should be an activity that continues throughout a person’s life. In fact, it could be argued that having a healthy lifestyle is even more important in the later stages of life. By taking regular low intensity exercise such as a brisk walk or swimming, the elderly can help to maintain bone density and minimize the loss of muscle tone. This can be vital in helping senior citizens to keep higher levels of mobility and reduce the risk of injuries due to slips, trips or falls. In addition, it is of paramount importance to ensure that elderly people have a healthy and balanced diet. Ideally the diet should be rich in fibre, nutrients and vitamins. Eating from fresh is a key way to have a healthy diet as processed foods and ready meals tend to contain lower levels of nutrition and may contain higher levels of salt.
Consider assisted living facilities
If an elderly person starts to develop health problems or mobility issues that are not severe, they may be able to retain higher levels of independence by moving to an assisted living facility. Assisted living facilities such as those that can be found at https://www.brandycare.com/our-communities/serenade-at-princeton/ offer a range of facilities and amenities for the elderly to enjoy along with on site specialist staff who can help with a residents health, mobility or social needs. Assisted living establishments also offer a community of elderly people who use the services. This can help to ensure that elderly residents can make friends with each other and partake in enjoyable social and entertainment activities that improve their quality of life.
Use technology more
It is a common misconception that elderly people are tech averse and struggle to use modern technology such as mobile phones or the internet. Even if an elderly person has little experience of this technology, most can learn the basic features. By using technology such as the internet and making video calls, the elderly can stay connected with distant relatives and loved ones. This can be of significant help if they live alone and want to socialize and communicate more with others. In addition, by using online shopping from supermarkets that deliver via web orders the elderly can keep independence in terms of their food and consumable needs.