The years after retirement and beyond hold many unknowns. However, one thing we do have control over is how we spend our time.
Too much exercise can cause injuries, while too much sedentary life is unhealthy. Life is all about giving and taking while balancing the scale.
Here are four ways to maintain your independence and feel like YOU after retirement:
1. Ask for Help
It’s common not to want to ask for help when you’ve been the helper and caregiver for most of your life, but this one is huge! A little help goes far, and it’s very important to ask for what you need before you injure yourself trying to be independent if it’s unsafe.
Support helps reduce anxiety about how things will get done and may boost confidence. Confidence and independence go hand in hand. If you have help, you may feel you can do things longer.
2. Report ALL of your Health Issues
Healthcare services are expanding in various ways, from extended hours to walk-in clinics. While this is helpful, it can be a challenge to say all you need to say when you get your face time with the doctor.
If remembering all the symptoms or details of your health is troublesome, consider bringing someone to your appointments. If you don’t have a trusted loved one to bring along, consider hiring someone to help with personal or companion care. Ask them to help you compile a list or be with you at your doctor’s appointment so you can relay everything you need to when you see your providers.
3. Keep On Moving
It can be common for people to think that it’s time to slow down after retirement, but you should do as much as possible with independence as long as it’s safe. If you are slowing down due to pain, swelling, or health issues, see your medical providers to determine the root cause and how to alleviate it.
Your doctor may order physical therapy to help you maintain your strength and balance while reducing your fall risk. Falls or fear of falling can contribute to reduced movement. It’s best to get evaluated if you are slowing down for any reason.
4. Stay Socially Active
Did you know that being lonely is as dangerous as smoking? Harvard’s longitudinal study of adult development highlighted that those who lived longest had someone they could trust—typically a spouse with whom they could share their lives.
As time progresses, even though we may lose loved ones or our beloved spouses, staying connected with others is still important. It can be easy to self-isolate as years take a toll on our bodies and we lose those we love; however, more clubs and organizations than ever can help connect people who could use a friend.
If getting places to make new friends is difficult, consider companion care. Home Care Companions offers this service for those without loved ones nearby.
Companion care is just as it sounds: a trusted staff member comes to spend time with you for social activities. From playing cards and games to having someone go for a light walk by your side or watch TV next to you, we can be there as helpful and trusted friends. We also offer personal care, homemaking services, and transportation scheduling.
With winter on the horizon, consider how our services can help keep you safe, comfortable, and social. If you’d like to learn more, please email us at hccinfo@yourhomecarecompanions.com.