Most people over the age of 65 want to stay in their own homes for as long as possible.
If you’re one of them, here are some steps you can take to make it happen.
Take care of yourself
Taking good care of yourself will help you remain in your home safely and independently. Stay in good physical shape to prevent health issues and keep your mind sharp.
Make sure to:
- Eat healthy and exercise regularly.
- Take your medications as prescribed.
- Stimulate your mind to help prevent memory loss.
- Be proactive about any health concerns.
Take care of your home
Your home provides a place of protection and comfort, so it’s important to take care of it. Perform regular maintenance and keep it clean.
If you have a yard, you’ll need to mow and shovel as the weather requires. It may be safer to have a family member, neighbor or local organization take these chores off your plate.
You should also act now to prevent accidents – such as falls.
Do a home safety check:
- Add assistive devices if you need them. This can include grab bars, ramps, non-slip floor surfaces, etc.
- Make sure the floor is clear and clutter-free.
- Rearrange furniture to improve accessibility.
Learn more about preventing falls at home.
Take care of your finances
Evaluate your current financial situation and take steps to plan for the future.
You should:
- Create and stick to a budget.
- Pay your bills on time.
- Maintain proper insurance for your home, health and automobiles.
- Explore where to find financial assistance if you need it.
Take care of your social needs
Isolation and loneliness can be harmful to your health and independence. Find ways to connect with family, friends or neighbors every day, either face-to-face or through technology.
Learn about the health benefits of staying social.
You can also:
- Build a support system with your family, friends and place of worship.
- Do the activities you love, such as going to movies, parties or concerts.
- Join a club, take a class or volunteer.
- Stay connected through social media.
Can’t do it all yourself?
Support is available. There are services in your area available to lighten the load for you and your loved ones. Sanford Health offers:
In-home medical care
Receive the medical care you need from our professional nursing team in the comfort of home. We provide a variety of in-home services, including:
- Home infusion therapy
- Medication management
- Rehab therapy
- Telemonitoring vitals, including blood pressure and pulse
In-home non-medical care
- Housekeeping. If daily chores and housekeeping have become more difficult as you’ve aged, we can help. Our team can provide whatever non-medical, in-home services you need, including light housekeeping.
- Transportation services. If it’s inconvenient or unsafe for you to drive, transportation services can help you get around. Use these services to get to medical appointments, go shopping, visit family or see your friends.
- Food programs. Some home care locations offer food programs such as meal or grocery delivery.
- Companion care. Having someone to talk to is an important part of life. Our home care team offers a listening ear and compassionate heart while helping with other personal care needs.
- Telehealth. Through telehealth, you’ll see a health care provider remotely without leaving home. We also offer health monitoring tools that give your provider real-time updates on your health. These services reduce the number of visits you’ll make to the clinic or hospital while still ensuring you get the care you need.
Sanford Health has the services you need to stay in your home for as long as possible. If you have questions, we’re happy to help.
Learn more
- 5 common conditions you can manage with in-home medical care
- Home care team in Minnesota is ‘part of our family’
- A Matter of Balance: What goes into fall prevention?
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Posted In Healthy Living, Rehabilitation & Therapy, Senior Services
