Remaining independent in your 70s is no easy feat. When you get older, your body starts to break down, and you need more assistance to complete everyday tasks. And while many people who are in their 70s choose to live in assisted living facilities or with family members, there are still several seniors who want to remain independent and live on their own. If you’re one of those seniors, this post is for you! In it, you will find a list of tips on how to remain independent in your 70s.
Remaining Independent Vs. Assisted Living
As people age, they often face the choice of whether to remain independent or move into an assisted living facility. There are many factors to consider, but ultimately the decision comes down to what will make the individual most comfortable. For some, living in close quarters with other people is too much to bear. They prefer the independence of living independently, even if it means giving up some of the amenities offered by assisted living facilities.
Others find that they need more assistance as they age and appreciate getting help with things like bathing, dressing, and meals. Ultimately, there is no right or wrong answer. The important thing is to choose the option that will allow you to age with dignity and grace.
Tips To Remain Independent In Your 70s
If your mind is made up and you’ve decided that you want to remain independent in your 70s, there are a few things you can do to make it happen. This section will provide you with all the essential tips you need to follow to continue living on your own!
Stay Active
People often start to experience more health problems and mobility issues in their later years, which can make it challenging to remain independent, and many seniors find themselves needing assistance with activities of daily living. However, there are things that seniors can do to help maintain their independence for as long as possible. One of the most important is to stay active.
Exercise helps maintain muscle strength, bone density, and balance, which are important for remaining independent. Therefore, seniors should focus on moderate aerobic activity, strength training, and flexibility exercises. If possible, they should aim for 30 minutes of exercise per day, but even shorter sessions can be beneficial.
Eat A Healthy Diet
Anyone who wants to remain independent in their 70s should start changing their diet. That’s because a healthy diet is essential for maintaining strength, energy, and mental agility as you age. Unfortunately, many people don’t eat as well as they should, opting for processed and sugary foods instead of nutritious fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. But if you want to stay independent in your elder years, your diet is an essential tool.
A healthy diet should include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. It’s also important to limit sugar, salt, and saturated fat. By making these changes now, you can set yourself up for a healthy and independent future.
Monitor Your Mental Health
While it may not seem all that essential, your mental health plays a big role in your ability to continue living independently. However, taking care of yourself and your home can be challenging if you deal with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues. Luckily, you can do a few things to monitor your mental health and ensure you’re on the right track. First, pay attention to your mood and energy levels. If you’re feeling down or low on energy, that could be a sign of depression.
Depression is common in older adults, so it’s important to catch it early. Another thing to pay attention to is your memory. As we age, our memory does decline somewhat, but if you notice a drastic change or difficulty with simple tasks, that could be a sign of dementia.
Dementia is a severe condition that can lead to loss of independence, so it’s essential to get help if you notice any changes. Lastly, social isolation can also lead to declining mental health, so staying connected with friends and family is important.
Prepare Your Home For Getting Older
Many people associate getting older with a decline in physical and mental ability. However, it is possible to age gracefully and remain independent well into your 70s and beyond with proper planning. You can do many things to prepare your home for getting older. For example, installing grab bars in the bathroom and adding ramps or stair lifts can help to make your home more accessible.
Decluttering and reorganizing your living space can also be helpful, as it can make it easier to move around and reduce the risk of falls. Additionally, ensuring that all of your essential documents are in order can save a lot of hassle down the road. By taking some simple steps now, you can help ensure that you will be able to live independently for many years.
Manage Chronic Health Conditions
Typically, your 70s are a time of retirement and relaxation. However, it can be a time of significant challenge for those managing chronic health conditions. According to recent estimates, nearly 40% of adults aged 65 and over have at least one chronic health condition, such as diabetes, heart disease, or arthritis. These conditions can make everyday activities difficult and potentially lead to a decline in independence.
Fortunately, some steps can be taken to manage chronic health conditions and remain independent in your 70s. First, you should regularly visit your doctor to stay on top of your condition and catch any potential problems early. Additionally, following any guidance, they may give in terms of diet, exercise, and medication is essential.
It can also be beneficial to join a support group or connect with others dealing with similar conditions. In addition, sharing information and advice can be invaluable in managing chronic health conditions. Lastly, don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Many people are happy to lend a hand, and there’s no shame in admitting that you need some assistance.
Avoid Scams
As you get older, you may be targeted by scammers more frequently because criminals often view seniors as easy targets. As a result, they may try to scam you out of your money or personal information through various methods, such as fake lottery winnings or bogus investment opportunities. It’s essential to be aware of these scams and know how to avoid them because if scammers take advantage of you, it could lead to a loss of independence.
One of the best ways to protect yourself is never to give out personal information, such as your Social Security number or bank account, unless you are sure you can trust the person or organization. Additionally, be suspicious of unsolicited offers, especially if they require payment upfront.
If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. However, by being aware of the most common scams and taking some simple precautions, you can help to protect yourself and continue to live independently in your 70s and beyond.
Follow These Tips To Remain Independent In Your 70s!
Getting older doesn’t have to mean a decline in independence. By taking some simple steps, such as preparing your home and managing your health, you can age gracefully and remain independent well into your 70s. And while it may not be easy for everyone, it is possible to remain in your home for a very long time. Remember, your independence is not what defines you as a person; it’s how you live your life. So, don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed, and enjoy your golden years to the fullest.