Be Your Own Person: Remain Independent as You Age

“There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age.” —Sophia Loren

Old age and independence don’t have to be opposites. In fact, it should be considered just another step in your life’s adventure. As long as you keep a positive outlook and follow the healthy tips below, there’s very little reason why you can’t be independent as you age.

How to Be Independent as You Age

• Stay fit and active. Exercise is a necessary part of a healthy lifestyle. It’s proven to help with balance, bone health and even preventing heart and brain conditions. Staying active and exercising regularly means a healthier, stronger body which make all the difference in staying independent for longer.
• Make healthy food choices. When you choose good nutrition, you can give a boost to your immune system, keep a healthy body weight and reduce your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and even certain cancers. When you pair good food choices with regular exercise, you can continue to be independent as you age.
• Take advantage of technology. We all love to spend time staying connected to other on social media and instant messaging, not to mention how easy email can make our lives. But did you know that technology can help you maintain your independence? Thanks to all the advancements in the industry, smart technology like home security systems, lighting and wireless thermostats can help you to keep control of your home through simple smartphone apps. Now both you and your children can feel better about you coming home at night or living alone.
• Visit your doctor. As much of a hassle as medical appointments can be, they can save you from much larger aggravations later as well as help you to keep your independence for longer. Making and keeping appointments to see your doctor can help alert you to any developing conditions or issues as well as provide you and your physician an opportunity to discuss any changes you should make to your lifestyle.
• Stay involved with your community. No matter how you spent your early years, retirement can feel slow in comparison. If you want to feel and stay active, one of the best ways to do that is to get into community involvement. You can volunteer for local mentorship programs, spend time volunteering for shelters or maybe take on a part-time job. There’s no better way to feel motivated to stay active than by spending time with the younger generations.
• Build a support system of friends. Laughter is some of the best medicine, and spending time with friends is an easy way to get a dose. If you don’t already have a group of friends to help you be independent, look for local meetup groups online. You can also try taking discounted courses at a nearby university or classes at a local craft store. You’ll likely build new friendships in no time to keep you feeling young.

Feel Free to be You at The Oaks at Denville

Your independence is of the utmost importance here at The Oaks at Denville. That’s why we offer a variety of amenities to help you keep healthy and active. Our gourmet dining experience not only provides delish, nutritious meals, but it also offers a place for you to gather with your support system of peers and enjoy some laughter. Stay fit and health with the LivWell program and our state-of-the-art fitness center or heated indoor pool. And keep you mind active with a good book from our senior community library.

See how you can live an independent, vibrant life at The Oaks at Denville by contacting our team today.