How to Increase Independence at Home for Seniors

Seniors do best when they’re able to maintain their independence for as long as possible. They’ll be more likely to eat healthier when they can enjoy meals in the comfort of their own kitchens. They may also retain more cognitive abilities when they’re able to follow a normal daily routine. Increasing independence at home for seniors involves offering them strategies and support that help them be successful in all of their endeavors.

Reduce Safety Hazards Around the Home

A home safety assessment involves having a professional senior caregiver walk through the house to check for common hazards. For instance, a jumble of cords that flows into the walkway could leave your aging loved one at risk for a slip-and-fall injury that threatens his or her independence. Clear out some clutter and install a few new safety features, such as grab bars in the bathroom, to make a big difference in your loved one’s safety at home. Keep in mind you’ll want to do a similar assessment annually or anytime your loved one’s needs change.

Many seniors prefer aging in place over moving to assisted living facilities. If your senior loved one needs assistance to remain safe and comfortable while living at home, reach out to Corio by Institute on Aging (IOA), a leading home care San Francisco agency. Our dedicated in-home caregivers can assist with meal prep, bathing and grooming, exercise, medication reminders, and many other important tasks.

Arrange Professional Services for Risky Activities

Even the most independent seniors may need to leave a few riskier tasks off their to-do lists. For instance, your loved one may not be safe mowing the lawn in extreme heat, or he or she might need to avoid climbing on ladders to change light bulbs. As you do a walk-through of your loved one’s daily routine and home maintenance needs, try to identify where he or she could benefit from professional help—whether it be someone assisting with heavy laundry baskets or even going grocery shopping.

Encourage Daily Exercise

Exercise is one of the best ways to prevent injuries and illnesses that could interfere with the ability to remain independent. Try to encourage your loved one to do daily stretches that keep his or her muscles limber. Your loved one may also need to start a walking routine or do other exercises the doctor recommends. If your loved one doesn’t like exercising, try to make it fun by adding a social component. Joining a senior fitness class or walking with a caregiver can turn exercise into an activity your loved one looks forward to each day.

If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Corio by IOA, a leading provider of hourly, live-in, and overnight home care. Our professional in-home caregivers are available around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.

Expand Their Social Support Network

Ideally, independent seniors should have multiple people they can turn to for help. Your loved one could benefit from joining a senior group in your local community that provides opportunities to socialize. You might also want to make sure your loved one knows the neighbors and how to reach out if he or she needs assistance. Helping your loved one connect with an in-home caregiver also gives your parent a professional to rely on when needing assistance with everything from cooking to finding transportation to a doctor’s appointment.

For many families, hourly home care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Corio by IOA, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home. To learn about our quality-assured services, give us a call today at (415) 750-4111.