How to Grow Old at Home

More elderly people wish to grow old at home. Whether they live in a house or apartment, senior citizens want their freedom and dignity as long as possible. Many residents over 60 have joined a nationwide effort to make their communities age-friendly and make growing old at home a better experience.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Organize your house to keep the items you use frequently in reach, including medical devices, books, radios and medication. Don't waste time searching for important medical items or even comfort food. By eliminating clutter and organizing your home for convenient access to the things you need, you minimize the possibility of accidents.
2. Enlist the aid of close family, friends and neighbors to help you with everyday needs. Since most younger friends and family members keep busy schedules, contact as many reliable people as you can and keep a schedule as to their availability.
3. Join or form a community organization geared toward helping elderly homeowners and tenants maintain an independent lifestyle. These groups band together and sometimes charge members a yearly fee to ensure that inexpensive and convenient repairs, housekeeping and home companion care will be accessible for all members.
4. Keep needed phone numbers programmed in your phone. Doctors, pharmacy, emergency medical personnel, supermarket and restaurant delivery, and family and neighbors' numbers need to be accessible at the press of a button.
5. Learn how to use a computer. This allows you to send simple emails and make purchases over the Internet.
6. Lobby for more health care centers and assisted living communities in your area. Support good wages for in-home health care practitioners and other businesses that cater to seniors living at home alone, like small heating/air conditioning and repair companies.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep active as you grow old. Join seniors groups, travel, walk around the block and take classes.