Be Kind to Your Future Self

Author

Right at Home-Alabama

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Right at Home - Mobile

Posted on

Dec 06, 2024

Book/Edition

Alabama - Gulf Coast

share-this
Share This

Be Kind to Your Future Self

 

It’s always tempting to live in the moment—to think about today rather than plan for tomorrow. But that’s a recipe for disappointment when it comes to preparing for our older years.

 

Experts have developed many innovative experiments to encourage younger people to plan ahead for the changes of aging. There are “aging suits” that use technology to simulate the muscular, visual and thinking changes we might face. Facial aging apps can give young people a glimpse at how they might appear in their later years—in a sense, allowing them to “meet” their older selves.

 

A good way to motivate ourselves to prepare for our later years is to consider ourselves in a continuum of ages, each stage influencing the well-being of the next. And consider this: At every age, and in the face of any challenges, you will still be you! Your priorities may change, but in general you’ll …

 

·         Treasure your independence.

·         Want to do things you enjoy.

·         Want to be free to be … you!

 

Fortunately, today we have lots of information on raising the odds we’ll get those wishes. Have you heard of “cohort studies”? This research observes large groups of people over a long period of time. Looking at the data allows experts to provide us with a road map for making choices when we’re young for which our older selves will thank us!

 

Take care of your overall health. That’s a pretty tall order. But there are a lot of things we can do when we’re young that raise our odds of independence when we’re older. When we’re healthy and young, regular health care appointments might not seem like a priority. But an individualized health plan, as well as prompt attention to any problems that arise, can have long-term positive effects.

 

Stay active. We might say, “Well, I’m too busy now. I’ll start working out when I retire.” But science tells us that exercising when we’re young is an important head start in preventing disease and frailty. People who have been active their whole lives are stronger when they’re older. Building a foundation of strong muscle and bone early on creates reserves for when it’s harder to stay fit. And don’t forget that the heart is a muscle, too. Find activities you enjoy and make time for them.

 

Make good lifestyle choices. Bad habits also have a lifetime effect. Experts from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health at Harvard University looked at data from a number of cohort studies and said, “Maintaining five healthy habits—eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, keeping a healthy body weight, not drinking too much alcohol, and not smoking—at middle age may increase years lived free of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer.”

 

Think safety. There’s a stereotype that younger people like to take chances—is that true of you? Consider that some activities could have consequences that last well into our later years. An automobile accident, a climbing fall or skateboard wipeout could create disabling injuries that continue to affect us as we age. For example, cohort studies show that head injuries increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Wear your seatbelt, get a bike helmet, and practice sports safety.

 

Prioritize brain health. It’s impossible to look at brain health separately from overall health. All the factors above protect the brain from injury and shrinkage. But we also need to give our brains a good workout—and the earlier, the better. Much important brain development happens when we’re young. Luckily, most beneficial activities are fun—including studying a musical instrument and learning a language. And the brain needs sleep: Several recent, large cohort studies show that over time, getting fewer than six hours of sleep per night raises the risk of Alzheimer’s by 30%.

 

Make future-oriented financial decisions. Here’s another area where planning ahead will really pay off—literally. It’s hard for most younger people to save money, but even a small savings plan allows time to work its magic. If your employer offers a retirement savings plan, take advantage of it. Do your homework and talk to an independent financial advisor, even early on. Picture your older self enjoying the benefits of what might feel like a sacrifice now.

 

Think about where to live. If you’re considering settling down in a “forever home,” consider whether it could continue to meet your needs even if you were living with disabilities. Or would you have to move, thereby giving up years of established social ties and your familiar spaces? Maybe you’re planning a big remodel. If you’re investing in a new kitchen or bathroom, think ahead and install doors wide enough for a wheelchair, and an accessible shower and kitchen counters.

 

Educate yourself about senior support services. Younger people who are providing care for aging parents or other loved ones may be getting these lessons already! Even if this isn’t you, it’s good to know about assistance you will (and won’t) be able to access down the road. Some older people decide to live in a retirement community or supported living environment. Those who value staying in their own homes can hire professional in-home care to preserve their independence and help them do things they want to do, despite their age or health challenges.

 

Cultivate a beneficial attitude about aging. Yes, it seems to be a pattern that the younger generation makes disparaging remarks about their elders. We’re certainly seeing it these days with slurs against the baby boomers—who themselves lived under the slogans of “never trust anyone over 30” and “hope I die before I get old.” But consider that a definition of ageism might be “prejudice against your future self.” Numerous cohort studies reveal that young people with a negative attitude about older adults are less likely to experience healthy, happy later years.

 

It’s time to retire the term “anti-aging.” People do grow older and, as the old saying goes, consider the alternative! Instead, the goal is to promote healthy aging as best you can, while being prepared for health challenges, so your older self can look back at the you of today and say, “Good job!”

 

Right at Home offers in-home care to seniors and adults with disabilities who want to live independently. Contact Right at Home with locations in Daphne and Mobile, Alabama at 251-459-8671 or at RAHsouth.com for more information.

Other Articles You May Like

Providing Living Assistance without Intruding

If you or a loved one needs more hands-on care, living assistance can help put your mind at ease. Living assistance is flexible, personalized, and fosters a safe home environment while maintaining a sense of independence and privacy. It can give you or your loved one the freedom to make everyday choices and receive a helping hand whenever needed.At St. Barnabas, we understand that the transition from full to partial independence isnt easy and how important it is to ensure your needs and preferences are both addressed. Here are a few ways living assistance is provided without intruding.Receiving Help As NeededEncouraging independence is one way to foster non-intrusive assistance. At a senior living assistance campus, the staff is always available to lend a hand without eliminating decision-making. You or your loved one can retain a sense of autonomy by participating in the daily tasks and chores and receiving help on an as-needed basis. Intervention comes in varying degrees, depending on individual ability. A personalized care plan may include: Incontinence support Wheelchair assistance Medication management Help with grooming, dressing, and bathing Wound, ostomy, or catheter care Care staff is attentive and sensitive to your needs, and they can offer a little help throughout the day or when needed. By participating in daily activities, you or your loved one can plan your day based on your personal preferences.Collaborative SchedulingAs an alternative to making a pre-set schedule and asking the resident to stick to it, working together to create a personal care plan that suits everyone can be beneficial. When it comes to weekly meals, exercise routines, and social activities, residents have the freedom to choose. Maybe they enjoy hearty, home-cooked meals, or perhaps they like to do stretching exercises versus walks. Wherever passions lie, the staff can incorporate those into the regular daily routine to help encourage healthy living and socialization in ways that suit personal preferences.Collaborating with staff can also ensure that activities are both enjoyable and safe. When a resident cant do an activity they love, the team can work with them to find ways to feel that same sense of joy without putting them in danger.Respecting Boundaries and Private SpacesSpending time alone gives us a chance to relax, decompress, and gather our thoughts. In a living assistance care center, its imperative that residents still have some time for themselves. Caregivers respect boundaries and private spaces. Before entering a room, they knock on the door and wait for the resident to respond. Designating a private area for residents to turn to when they feel overwhelmed also aids in creating independence and ultimately gives them a space to de-stress and unwind.Places like the bathroom or shower are understandably uncomfortable areas for intrusion, so caregivers are sure to give residents the space they need to complete these tasks in private. The staff still makes sure the resident is safe by remaining nearby and listening for signs that something may be wrong. Learn More about Living Assistance at St. Barnabas Serving the Greater Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area, including Allegheny, Beaver, and Butler counties, St. Barnabas is here to give you the support you need. With a dedication to providing comfortable and compassionate living assistance services, you can count on us for all of your care requirements. To learn more about our senior living assistance program, contact us today.

Why Active Seniors Love Independent Living in Baldwin County

A lot changes as we get older. We begin to see the value of connection, creativity, and freedom with new eyes. The things that felt important beforehome maintenance, career-building, keeping up with the Jonesesstart to take a back seat to the things we really want to do. The things that make life worth living.Where you live in your golden years makes a huge impact on how you live. Thats why more older adults are choosing independent living. In Baldwin County, especially, independent living offers a unique blend of freedom, community, and support, making it an ideal choice for many people 55+.Lets explore what independent living really means, its benefits, and why Baldwin Countyparticularly areas like Foley and Fairhopeis a great fit for active seniors.What Is Independent Livingand Who Is it For?Independent living is designed for seniors who want to enjoy retirement on their own termsfree from the stress of home maintenance, with the added benefit of a built-in community. While assisted living supports residents with activities of daily living (ADLs) like bathing or medication reminders, independent living is for older adults who can manage their day-to-day routines. Theyre simply ready to trade chores for convenience.In short, its about independence with fewer responsibilities and more time to do what you love.What Is the Difference Between Assisted Living and Independent Living?Both independent living and assisted living offer supportive, community-based lifestyles, but they serve different needs.Independent living is ideal for active seniors who can manage daily life on their own but want to simplify things. Its a maintenance-free lifestyle with amenities like housekeeping, transportation, meals, and activities built in. You dont need help with personal care, but you do want more time to enjoy retirement.Assisted living, on the other hand, is for seniors who could use a helping hand with things like bathing, dressing, medication reminders, or mobility. These communities provide 24/7 staff support, personalized care plans, and licensed nurses to help residents stay safe and supported while still maintaining as much independence as possible.At Community Senior Life, both Live Oak Village in Foley and Homestead Village in Fairhope offer a continuum of care. That means you can start in independent living and transition to assisted living later if your needs change. Its flexibility without having to leave the community you love.Why Baldwin County Is a Great Place to RetireWhen it comes to independent living in or close to Foley, Alabama or nearby Fairhope, Baldwin County stands out. This scenic stretch of South Alabama offers a slower pace of life, rich cultural experiences, and close-knit communities that make it feel like home right away.From coastal views to charming downtowns, Baldwin County offers the perfect mix of natural beauty and modern convenience. You get all the benefits of a warm climate, sandy toes, and senior-friendly services without the expense or crowd of Florida retirement communities. Whether you have a love for the great outdoors, an artists soul, or youve simply called this area home, retirement in Baldwin County has so much to offer.Spotlight on Independent Living in Fairhope & Foley: Two Senior Living Options, One MissionLive Oak Village Foley, ALLocated in the heart of Foley, Live Oak Village is a welcoming independent living community where comfort meets connection. Here, independent living residents enjoy spacious apartments, chef-prepared meals, housekeeping services, and a full calendar of social and recreational activities. Whether youre relaxing by the pool or joining a group fitness class, theres always something to look forward to.Homestead Village Fairhope, ALJust a short drive away, Homestead Village offers the charm of small-town living with easy access to restaurants, art galleries, and coastal attractions. Known for its beautiful grounds and vibrant lifestyle, this independent living community caters to seniors who want to stay active and engaged. With pet-friendly apartments, transportation services, and an on-site wellness center, its easy to thrive here.Both communities are operated by Community Senior Life and offer optional transitions into assisted living should care needs ever change.More Freedom, Less Stress: The Perks of Maintenance-Free LivingImagine a lifestyle where you never have to mow the lawn, fix a leaky faucet, or worry about cooking dinnerunless you want to. Thats the promise of independent living.These communities offer a wide range of services, including:Housekeeping and laundryTransportation to appointments and events, if requestedRestaurant-style dining for when you want to relax and socializeFull apartment-style living for when you want to stay inOn-site & in-home care services available, if needed Security and emergency response systemsStay Active, Social, and ConnectedIndependent living communities are about comfort and connection. Whether youre social by nature or just looking for opportunities to make new friends, theres something here for everyone. At both Foley and Fairhope CSL communities, full-time Activities Directors create calendars packed with events people actually want to participate in. From morning yoga to art classes and group outings, these are the kinds of activities youve always wanted to try but never had time for before.Social interaction has been shown to reduce stress, boost mental health, and even improve longevity. And when it comes naturallylike over lunch with neighbors or on a community garden walkits even more impactful.When Is the Right Time to Make the Move to Independent Living?Here are a few signs its time to reconsider your current living arrangement:Youre tired of the upkeep that comes with owning a homeYoud like more opportunities to socialize and stay activeYou want a safer environment with support close bybut not intrusiveYoure ready to downsize and enjoy more freedomMaking the move to an independent living community is a step toward making your well-being and happiness priority #1.What Is the Average Cost of Senior Independent Living in Fairhope, AL?Its one of the most common questions we hear: What is the cost of independent living? The answer varies depending on the floor plan, unit size, and service packages you choosebut in Alabama, rates are often more affordable than many seniors expect.At Homestead Village of Fairhope, rates start at $1,650. Live Oak Village rates start at $2,000. Both are well below the state average of $2,481 and the national average of $3,065and the current average mortgage rates. Plus, everything is included in one monthly fee, so all your expenses are much easier to track.When comparing the true cost of staying in your homeincluding utilities, maintenance, groceries, and transportationindependent living is often a more cost-effective (and enjoyable) option. Explore our free cost comparison worksheet to make planning for independent living costs easier!Tour a CSL Community TodayThe best way to see if independent living is right for you is to visit in person. At Community Senior Life, we encourage you to tour Live Oak Village in Foley or Homestead Village in Fairhope and see what makes these communities so special.Walk the grounds. Meet the staff. Ask questions. Most importantlytrust your instincts. When it feels like home, youll know.Ready to Embrace a More Enjoyable Retirement in Baldwin County?Explore independent living in Foley or Fairhope with Community Senior Life. Call (251) 981-0200 or reach out online to schedule your tour today!

Preventing Falls at Home: A Western PA Checklist for Families

Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adultsand they often result in long-term consequences like hip fractures, reduced independence, or the need for assisted living. In fact, one in four seniors over the age of 65 falls each year. For families across Western Pennsylvania, where many seniors are still living at home in older houses with stairs, uneven flooring, or poor lighting, fall prevention isnt just a health concernits a quality-of-life issue.At CarePatrol of Western PA, we work closely with families to ensure their loved ones can age safely at homeor transition to the right level of care when needed. Whether your parent lives in Mt. Lebanon, Monroeville, Cranberry Township, or Beaver County, this local checklist can help you make the home a safer place.Why Fall Prevention Matters in Western PAMany homes in Western PA were built decades ago and may include: Narrow hallways or staircases Multi-level layouts with multiple steps between rooms Slippery basement laundry areas Aging outdoor walkways affected by freeze-thaw cycles These architectural quirks, combined with common age-related changes like decreased balance, vision loss, and slower reaction times, create a perfect storm for falls. The good news? Most falls are preventable with a proactive approach.Common Risk Factors for Falls Among SeniorsUnderstanding what contributes to falls can help families take targeted action. Some of the most common risk factors include: Poor lighting Loose rugs and cords Cluttered walking paths Poorly fitting footwear Lack of grab bars or handrails Medication side effects (e.g., dizziness or drowsiness) Declining strength, balance, or vision By addressing these factors, you can reduce the chance of an accidentand the stress that comes with it.Designed for Western PA HomesBelow is a practical checklist you can use to assess your loved ones home. Aim to complete this with themideally before winter sets in or before a health event forces changes.When to Consider Additional SupportIf your loved one is already struggling with balance, vision, or recovering from a fall, it may be time to consider more structured helpeither through in-home caregivers or a transition to assisted living.Here are a few red flags that the home may no longer be a safe environment: Multiple falls in the past 6 months Difficulty navigating stairs or walking without support Missed medications due to mobility issues Isolating at home due to fear of falling Home is too difficult to modify (e.g., steep staircases, inaccessible bathroom) At CarePatrol, we can help you assess the home environment, care needs, and explore safer living optionsall at no cost to your family.Youre Not in This AloneFall prevention isnt about taking away independenceits about preserving it. The sooner your family takes action, the longer your loved one can live safely, whether at home or in a community designed for their needs.At CarePatrol of Western PA, were here to help families from Butler to Greensburg, Washington to Beaver make safer, smarter decisions about aging well. Our local advisors can assess your loved ones risk for falls, recommend in-home care, and guide you through transitions to senior living when appropriate.Ready to Take the First Step?Lets prevent the next fall before it happens. Contact CarePatrol of Western PA today for a free care consultation and home safety discussion.

Local Services By This Author

Right at Home - Mountain Brook

Non-Medical 9 Office Park Circle, Birmingham, Alabama, 35223

Mountain Brook's Trusted, Quality In-Home Senior Care Provider! Right at Home offers a range of services to support individuals with serious health issues and seniors who need assistance to maintain their independence at home. Companion care focuses on providing assistance with household tasks and promoting social interaction to enhance well-being. Personal care services assist with daily activities such as hygiene and mobility, allowing seniors to remain at home with dignity. Specialty care is available for those with unique needs, with caregivers trained to provide both practical support and emotional reassurance. Nursing services provide medical support tailored to the individual's needs, ensuring quality care without the need for hospitalization. Right at Home also ensures comprehensive support for injured workers through specialized caregiver training and assistance navigating the worker's compensation process, ensuring they receive the care and resources they need to recover comfortably at home. Contact Right at Home for more information on how they can help support you and your loved ones, regardless of where the individual calls home. Accredited by The Joint Commission. Please visit www.RAHSouth.com to see all of our locations. Nurses and Social Workers can visit www.RAHCEU.com for our online continuing education units. For those seeking careers, please visit www.RAHapply.com.

Right at Home - Tuscaloosa

Non-Medical 320 Hargrove East Road, Tuscaloosa, Alabama, 35401

Tuscaloosa's Trusted, Quality In-Home Senior Care Provider! Right at Home offers a range of services to support individuals with serious health issues and seniors who need assistance to maintain their independence at home. Companion care focuses on providing assistance with household tasks and promoting social interaction to enhance well-being. Personal care services assist with daily activities such as hygiene and mobility, allowing seniors to remain at home with dignity. Specialty care is available for those with unique needs, with caregivers trained to provide both practical support and emotional reassurance. Nursing services provide medical support tailored to the individual's needs, ensuring quality care without the need for hospitalization. Right at Home also ensures comprehensive support for injured workers through specialized caregiver training and assistance navigating the worker's compensation process, ensuring they receive the care and resources they need to recover comfortably at home. Contact Right at Home for more information on how they can help support you and your loved ones, regardless of where the individual calls home. Accredited by The Joint Commission. Please visit www.RAHSouth.com to see all of our locations. Nurses and Social Workers can visit www.RAHCEU.com for our online continuing education units. For those seeking careers, please visit www.RAHapply.com.

Right at Home - Gardendale

Non-Medical 1108 Main Street, Gardendale, Alabama, 35071

Gardendale's Trusted, Quality In-Home Senior Care Provider! Right at Home offers a range of services to support individuals with serious health issues and seniors who need assistance to maintain their independence at home. Companion care focuses on providing assistance with household tasks and promoting social interaction to enhance well-being. Personal care services assist with daily activities such as hygiene and mobility, allowing seniors to remain at home with dignity. Specialty care is available for those with unique needs, with caregivers trained to provide both practical support and emotional reassurance. Nursing services provide medical support tailored to the individual's needs, ensuring quality care without the need for hospitalization. Right at Home also ensures comprehensive support for injured workers through specialized caregiver training and assistance navigating the worker's compensation process, ensuring they receive the care and resources they need to recover comfortably at home. Contact Right at Home for more information on how they can help support you and your loved ones, regardless of where the individual calls home. Accredited by The Joint Commission. Please visit www.RAHSouth.com to see all of our locations. Nurses and Social Workers can visit www.RAHCEU.com for our online continuing education units. For those seeking careers, please visit www.RAHapply.com.