Maintaining your independence can be nerve-wracking, to say the least! Independence not only varies with age, but it varies across different societies and cultures. There are various struggles that people face as they grow older, and understandably, there are significant life changes that sometimes have to be made regarding on circumstance.
Your Mindset
Quite simply, independence depends entirely on your mindset. Regardless of your situation, it is all about how you think and feel. Accepting changes in your current situation is the best way to move forward. This is especially the case when you may have to change certain lifestyle choices because you are becoming less physically independent. Looking positively at change can be the best way to embrace it. Just because you are getting older and having to make changes to your independence, this does not mean that you have to see it as a failure or approach it negatively.
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Groceries
Cooking and ordering groceries are a main part of day-to-day life. If these parts of life are becoming difficult because of old age, there are options you can look into to help you. If buying groceries has become difficult due to the physicality of getting around, ordering groceries online might be the perfect alternative. Doing your shopping online involves the groceries being brought to your door with the simple click of a button. This option is particularly beneficial for those heavier items which could otherwise be a big struggle. Buying other items online can also mean that a journey to the shop, which may be taxing, time-consuming, and difficult, is suddenly made that much easier. Utilizing the internet is a fundamental part of maintaining independence, especially if you are growing older. Of course, if you would rather maintain the social side of this particular activity, going grocery shopping once a week with a loved one could be the perfect alternative. It could become part of your set routine, around which you devise meal plans.
Living Alone
Various elements of living alone can become harder over time. Household chores such as washing and cleaning can become harder depending on the physical strains involved. Part of growing older is taking less responsibility when needs must. Hiring help may be an option; having someone come in once a week to do your ironing and washing could help massively with your independence, and ensure you are keeping a tight ship regardless of your actual ability. Ensuring you know who you can call and which services to rely upon is also important in maintaining your independence. Knowing who to contact in such instances can be particularly beneficial, such as plumbing Denver emergencies. Maintaining independence also means knowing your local resources or services when you need help outside of your capabilities. Taking care of the home is time-consuming and requires a lot of time but is part of the process of independence. Knowing when it is sensible to ask for help can go a long way in terms of your general wellbeing.
Living a healthy life
Independence means taking care of your wellbeing. Self-care leads to a happier mind and body. You can just take a few minutes of the day, every day, to accomplish this. Some things that contribute to a healthy lifestyle are exercise, hobbies and doing everything in moderation. For instance, you could take up a new hobby or look into local community projects to get involved with. These are fantastic ways to remain independent, and potentially learn a new skill and meet new people. Growing older does not mean that you stop broadening your horizons. Your wellbeing and quality of life are still maintained, it just takes a little thought and effort on your part. Reading enlightening books and engaging in thought-provoking conversations can help to light the minds and expand the horizons of individuals.
New hobbies can be very beneficial for both your physical and mental health, and as you grow older, it may seem that options and opportunities are suddenly limited. However, this is rarely the case. A network of people who are in similar situations will be present in your community, and through doing your research and finding what is out there, you may find yourself discovering new pastimes, and activities, that you previously didn’t know about. An important factor is to embrace it. Another thing to remember is looking after your health. Go for regular check-ups at the doctor and make a point of calling them to do so. All of these things and more go a long way to improve one’s physical and mental wellbeing.
Accepting Change
One of the most important things to remember about growing older is accepting change. Just because some tasks have become more difficult, and you suddenly have to ask for help when you didn’t before, doesn’t mean you have failed. Understanding what changes need to be made, and embracing these, can ensure that your quality of life is assured. Big changes may have to be made. However, you can still make these works for you. If you have to downsize, for example, you can find somewhere which suits you or is nearer your family. Your family and peers will often be very supportive of any changes you need to make. Taking their points on board can be beneficial too. Be open to suggestions, as these might provide the perfect resolution for you.
Although any change may be daunting, making it works for you, and taking the time to ensure you are happy is a fundamental part of the process. Seeking help when you need it can ensure that your lifestyle is a positive one. It is better to understand when action needs to be taken, as opposed to opposing change and struggling in the long run. Retirement is a part of life where you come first, and sometimes, that will involve relaxing and taking a step back. Taking time to care for you, and looking out for yourself, becomes more important. Once you implement an accepting and positive outlook on your situation, regardless of the issues you may be facing, you can ensure that you maintain the independence that you have always had, with dignity, while having fun along the way.
FAQs
What is meant by independence and freedom?
Independence refers to the ability to make decisions and take actions without being unduly influenced or controlled by others. Freedom refers to the ability to live one’s life without unnecessary restrictions or limitations.
Why is maintaining independence and freedom important?
Maintaining independence and freedom is important for personal growth, self-expression, and well-being. It allows individuals to pursue their goals and dreams, make their own choices, and live according to their own values and beliefs.
What are some tips for maintaining independence and freedom?
Some tips for maintaining independence and freedom include setting boundaries with others, practicing assertiveness, taking responsibility for one’s own decisions and actions, staying informed and educated, maintaining financial independence, and cultivating a strong support network.
How can setting boundaries with others help maintain independence and freedom?
Setting boundaries with others involves communicating one’s needs, desires, and limitations in a clear and assertive manner. This can help prevent others from exerting undue influence or control over one’s life, allowing for greater autonomy and independence.
What is assertiveness, and how can it help maintain independence and freedom?
Assertiveness involves standing up for oneself and communicating one’s needs and desires in a respectful and clear manner. It can help individuals assert their independence and maintain their freedom by setting boundaries with others and advocating for their own interests.
Why is taking responsibility for one’s own decisions and actions important for maintaining independence and freedom?
Taking responsibility for one’s own decisions and actions is important because it allows individuals to exercise their autonomy and make choices that align with their values and goals.
How can staying informed and educated help maintain independence and freedom?
Staying informed and educated about current events, issues, and personal finances can help individuals make informed decisions and avoid being unduly influenced or manipulated by others.
