What Does Independence Mean to You?

As we prepare to celebrate Independence Day, the idea of “independence” is top-of-mind. Maintaining independence is a primary goal for older adults, as the challenges of aging come into play. There’s no getting around the fact that as you age, you will likely face new limitations.

Perhaps you have to stop driving as the result of diminished physical ability. (Relinquishing the keys is tough, we know.) Or you can’t run errands because of decreased mobility. You might have trouble reading the mail (and paying the bills) because your eyesight has gotten worse. However, these changes don’t mean you’ve fully lost your independence. You just need the right resources and the right attitude. Here’s where to start.

Accept help. Don’t be shy about asking for help with a task or chore. If a relative, friend, or neighbor says they’re happy to help, believe them.

Use outside resources. If you can’t get help from those you know, tap into resources like meal delivery and bill-paying services. Do you need a ride somewhere? Check out Go Go Grandparent, a service that uses Lyft and Uber to provide transportation—no smartphone needed. If getting to the mailbox is a challenge, contact your local post office and arrange for hardship mail delivery. They’ll deliver mail to your door! To learn about additional resources, contact AgeWise Solutions. 

Adjust your mindset. Losing independence is incredibly hard and can lead to increased feelings of sadness. That’s understandable. It’s essential to know, however, that you control your feeling of self-worth—and you can accept help with dignity. As your abilities shift, so can your definition of independence. Even if you can’t drive to the store, remember that you control who brings you. And if you still make a mean meatloaf, feel good about that. Focus on the things you can do. When it comes to independence, there’s plenty to appreciate.

To learn about our services or to make an appointment, please contact us at (302) 858-6449 or [email protected].