Statistics show that up to 90 percent of seniors want to remain independent in their own homes for as long as possible.

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) are “the things we normally do in daily living, including any daily activity we perform for self-care (such as feeding ourselves, bathing, dressing, grooming), work, homemaking, and leisure.”

  • A search for activities of daily living on Organized Wisdom  http://organizedwisdom.com  offers  multiple resources including a checklist of ADL’s to watch

  • Safety and the ability to take care of daily needs is crucial

Still ADL’s are not the first sign that help may be needed. Whether you are caring for a loved one or living alone some other signs that help may be needed can allow time for planning and maintaining control of your independence.

Pay attention to signs you or your loved one are not keeping up in other areas. These may lead to isolation or depression.

  • Money Management – is keeping track of bills getting difficult? Are bills being missed or paid twice? Does a check book that used to be always in balance seem to be out of control with no real change in income or expenses? Identify trusted individuals to manage funds. Perhaps an adult child or a fiduciary. You will know the right choice for your situation and your family.

  • Transportation – Are you finding yourself driving less and less? My mother, who is 91, has limited her driving to daytime and surface streets. As her reflexes slowed and her night vision worsened she recognized her limitations and chose to drive safely. Rather than allow that to limit her activities she has developed a network of friends  who like the same types of activities she likes. She is continually telling me about concerts she has attended and parties for family and friends that she goes to. Don’t let inability to drive as far or as late stop you from getting out. Find alternatives that work for you. Many cities have vouchers for seniors to use public transit – buses, trains and taxis – at discounted rates. Your local senior services office should be able to help identify resources available to you. And don’t forget to make new and younger friends. They can be a great resource and a lot of fun to hang out with!

  • Communication technology – As our technology advances sometimes we find ourselves struggling to learn to use new communication tools. Senior Centers have classes in computer use for those who want to learn to email and send and receive pictures from family and friends. If you find that you are not able to use the devices you have used in the past seek information on assistive technologies that may make communication possible again. From the basic volume controls that make it possible to hear the telephone to on screen keyboards that allow use of a single button to type messages the options are endless. And when you upgrade to a smart phone don’t hesitate to go back into the store to ask the sales people questions about how to make the phone do what you want it to do.

 If you need help identifying resources in any of these areas contact your iTAP staff and let him or her do the research for you. Remember – you can prevent isolation and depression by identifying ways to stay active and engaged!

Stay involved!

Plan Ahead!

Follow your dreams!

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