Living independently at home
Would you like to continue living independently, but are you finding that this is becoming more difficult? Perhaps it is still possible, but it requires a lot of planning, energy or help from others. Or perhaps you are worried about the future. That is perfectly understandable. Living independently is not just about having a home. It’s about freedom, safety and having control over your daily life. Living independently does not mean you have to do everything on your own. In fact, by looking into help, aids, routines and adjustments in good time, you can often continue to live comfortably at home for longer.
What do you notice?
Living independently can become more difficult in various ways. Sometimes it is physical tasks that make living independently more difficult. Sometimes it is a question of keeping track of things, safety or confidence.
You may, for example, notice that:
- daily tasks take more energy;
- climbing stairs, having a shower or cooking becomes more difficult;
- you need help more often;
- you are afraid of falling;
- you go out less often;
- the housework is left undone;
- you have difficulty with planning or administration;
- family or loved ones are worried;
- You are unsure whether it is still safe to live at home.
Sometimes it is difficult to accept that things change. Yet thinking about independent living at an early stage can actually bring greater peace of mind.
