Independence is a hallmark of adulthood—one that, for many people, the mere thought of losing is enough to cause profound distress. As we grow older, maintaining independence becomes critical as our bodies and minds begin to reflect the wear and tear of life. A strong sense of independence is essential for seniors' physical, mental, and emotional health.
For senior living communities committed to exceptional living and high-quality care, preserving older adults’ independence is at the heart of the journey every step of the way. However, the perception that senior living restricts an older adult’s ability to remain independent can cause resistance to this move, even if a senior can no longer safely live at home.
In this three-part series, we will explore how a senior’s independence is honored and prioritized at each level of care: independent living, assisted living, and memory care or skilled nursing. Last month, we discussed what seniors and their loved ones can expect from independent living communities. This article will explore how independent living communities honor a senior’s sense of independence.
The Pillars of Independence
How an older adult defines independence can vary from person to person. For some, independence may mean being able to drive for as many years as they can. For others, it may mean being able to style their hair each morning. Senior living communities' efforts to maintain senior independence are rooted in a commitment to healthy aging. In support of that goal, we have compiled a brief list of independence “pillars” in the world of senior living.
The keystone of independence for seniors is autonomy, or the ability to make decisions for one’s own life. If the goal of maintaining a senior’s independence is to prolong their physical and mental health, autonomy is woven into the path to get there. The pillars of independence are five common areas where this autonomy can shine: safety, social connection, health management, daily routine, and the preservation of identity.
Safety and Security
Whether stand-alone or part of a continuum of care community, independent living facilities place senior safety and security at the forefront of their mission. These communities typically have staff members on-site 24/7, designated security personnel, and 24-hour emergency call systems. In addition, most independent living communities have accessible infrastructure that helps prevent injuries and reduce the likelihood of falls and other accidents.
A sense of security allows people to fully consider and embrace their personal decisions. Instead of operating out of a headspace of fear and anxiety, seniors who feel safe also feel empowered to choose what they truly want. Independent living communities protect seniors’ physical well-being and allow for greater peace of mind by cultivating an older adult's real and perceived safety.
Social Connection
Strong social bonds have been repeatedly linked to positive health outcomes for older adults. Within this pillar, independent living provides the best of both worlds. Seniors living independently in a community may still have vibrant social circles and manage their own transportation. At the same time, independent living offers seniors the benefit of being around others and having many opportunities to socialize.
Socialization is always encouraged in independent living communities, but social opportunities are entirely optional. For social butterflies, signing up for the community pickleball league or going on a trip to a local attraction might be their style. For seniors who prefer the life of a homebody, relaxing in the community’s lounge areas or playing a card game with a neighbor might seem appealing instead.
No matter where your loved one falls on the introvert to extrovert spectrum, independent living allows them to socialize according to their own preferences, needs, and routines.
Health and Wellness Management
For many seniors, the ability to make health-related decisions is a significant area of personal autonomy to retain. Much of a senior’s healthcare and wellness routine is still within their control at the independent living level, though extra support is often easy to access and/or available.
Amenities like dining options, wellness centers, and even on-site medical services make it easy for older adults to care for their physical and mental health. Individual apartments in independent living communities feature small kitchens or kitchenettes for cooking their meals if they choose. Exercise classes and enrichment programs help seniors stay physically and mentally active, strengthening their overall well-being and increasing the likelihood of prolonged independence.
Daily Routine
While encouraging a senior’s role in setting their daily routine is beneficial, especially in higher care levels, older adults may still find relief in learning that independent living does not require a schedule. Seniors living in an independent community can continue to decide what they want to do daily, from when they wake up to when they go to sleep, to how they spend their waking hours.
In some ways, the golden years of retirement give seniors the most freedom since early adulthood. Independent living allows seniors to enjoy the best parts of adult life without worrying about the stress of climbing the corporate ladder and the burden of home maintenance.
Preservation of Identity
If autonomy is the keystone of independence, preserving a person’s identity is certainly a cornerstone. As seniors age, a common fear for them and their caregivers is a loss of individuality and sense of self.
Sadly, in some cases, neurodegenerative diseases like dementia can rob seniors and their loved ones of the irreplaceable qualities that make them who they are. Most of the time, however, a senior’s sense of identity can be preserved through self-expression, including what they wear, what they like and dislike, how they stay active, and how they spend their time.
In independent living communities, seniors are encouraged to personalize their living space to their heart’s desire and can take advantage of on-site barbers and salons. They can maintain their fitness routine, enjoy their favorite meals, and participate in activities that inspire them, and foster valuable social connections.
Individuality is nurtured in senior living communities with resident-focused and relationship-centered programs and initiatives. With opportunities to engage in long-loved hobbies, meaningful cultural and spiritual traditions, familiar routines, music and the arts, and other healthy living practices, residents are empowered to maintain a strong sense of self and purpose.