Health And Independence Goals For The Elderly

As life expectancy increases, the issue of maintaining health and independence has become a priority, especially among the aging baby boomer population. Most seniors wish to remain at home and independent throughout their final years. Medical and technological advances make this more possible now than ever before. The following are some tips for seniors to ensure they remain active and healthy during their golden years.

1. Create a secure environment.

Safety should be at the forefront of every senior’s mind. Falls are the most common reason seniors lose their independence. Almost 500,000 people over age 65 are hospitalized each year due to fall-related injuries. Sadly, these injuries often lead to permanent disability and even death. The good news is falls are entirely preventable. Seniors and their families should conduct a thorough safety review of the home. The review should take into account the senior’s specific health, cognitive, and mobility related issues. Remember to reassess safety whenever there is a change in physical or mental status.

2. Embrace technology.

One of the most valuable pieces of technology for any senior is an emergency alert device. These devices instantly connect a person to emergency services with the touch of a button in the event of a fall or other accident. Assistive devices are available to make it easier for seniors to perform daily activities such as dressing, cooking, and bathing. Easy to operate electronic pill boxes are even available to remind seniors to take medication properly. Your doctor, medical supply company, or home health agency can help you find the right assistive devices for your situation.

3. Set healthcare goals.

The act of setting a goal often has a positive impact on a person’s overall outlook. Setting goals provides a sense of empowerment and control over one’s circumstances. Setting healthcare goals should be a collaborative effort involving the senior, their family, and the doctor. The goals should not try to fix everything at once. The goals should involve one or two specific steps the senior can take to improve their overall quality of life. For example, the doctor may advise the senior to increase exercise. The senior may not care about exercise or losing weight but may desire to remain in the home to be with a beloved dog. You can use the emotional connection to bring the two goals together by encouraging the senior to take more frequent walks with the dog.