Staying independent is incredibly important for older adults, as independence can help maintain overall health and well-being. In fact, 63 percent of respondents in a recent survey on aging said they worried about losing their independence. Losing independence was the third-highest concern for people in their 60s, behind losing memory and poor health. The loss of independence was the second-highest concern for people in their 70s.

Older adults often worry about losing their independence when they must rely on other people for their daily needs. They may not realize a level of care known as personal care in the Commonwealth of Kentucky (also known as assisted living in some states) provides services and amenities that help older adults maintain their independence longer.

Ways Personal Care Helps Older Adults Maintain Independence

Personal care can help older adults keep their independent lifestyles longer in a number of ways.

Personal care helps older adults get out and about

Nearly 2 million adults 65 or older are completely or nearly housebound, according to The Commonwealth Fund, and another 5.3 million have a health problem or other limitations that make it difficult to leave their homes. 

This means millions of older Americans are not getting the medical care they need to stay healthy, or other types of care that help them remain independent, such as physical therapy for their mobility issues, and eye care that helps them with cooking, shopping, driving, reading, and navigation. Mobility issues also prevent older adults from having lunch with family or friends, going shopping, enjoying day trips, and participating in other activities.

Personal care staff is ready to meet residents’ mobility needs. These communities also offer convenient transportation and easy parking to help maintain independence for drivers and non-drivers alike. Transportation helps residents be engaged, active, and independent without relying on friends or family members.

Personal care provides more chances to connect

Nearly one-quarter of adults 65 and older are socially isolated, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Living alone, the loss of friends and family, chronic illness, and hearing loss put older adults at increased risk for social isolation and loneliness. 

According to the National Institutes on Aging, research shows that social isolation and loneliness are associated with higher risks of certain health issues, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, a weakened immune system, anxiety or depression, Alzheimer’s disease, cognitive decline, and even death.

Older adults often worry that moving to a retirement community will end an active social life. The good news is that personal care communities provide opportunities to meet people who have similar interests. The improved mobility gained by personal care also can help older adults meet and interact with others.

Personal care ensures safety and security

Safety and security are important at any age, but personal injury and crime can significantly reduce independence for older adults. Living in a personal care community can help improve both safety and security.

One out of four adults who are 65 and older fall each year, according to the CDC, and falling once doubles the chances that someone will fall again. About 20 percent of falls cause broken bones, head injuries, or other serious issues that can greatly reduce independence. Certain factors can contribute to falling, such as:

• Difficulty walking;
• Certain medications;
• Health problems, including vision problems, muscle weakness, and vitamin deficiencies; and
• Home hazards, including broken steps, throw rugs, low lighting, and lack of handrails.

Personal care communities create environments that ensure safety and security. This type of retirement community has staffing to help residents deal with mobility issues, manage their medications, and address health problems. These communities also are built with safety and security measures, such as good lighting and locking doors.

Clearly, personal care helps older adults stay independent. If you are an older adult or have an older loved one who wants to remain independent for as long as possible, contact the Episcopal Church Home in Louisville, Ky.