9 Independent Living Skills for Seniors

If remaining independent as you age is a goal, or you have a loved one who wants to continue living independently, there are several essential skills to consider. From managing money to doing your own laundry, activities of daily living (ADLs) matter when determining if it is safe to live on your own as an older adult. 

In 2020, approximately 14.7 million older adults lived alone, or 28% of the population; many of them were lonely or in poor health. While it is not always easy to control those factors, there are things you can do to help age better and more comfortably. By being prepared, you will reduce some of your health risks and may be able to stay independent and content with life well into your later years. 

Here are nine critical, independent living skills you will need and valuable information on when assisted living or a similar care option may be a better choice. 

1. Money Management – One of the most important independent living skills is money management. Anyone, from young adults to seniors, who want to live independently should be able to manage their funds. This can include the ability to pay bills, go grocery shopping, and handle personal care purchases regularly. 
2. Nutrition and Cooking – Many seniors who struggle to live independently do not eat well, which can lead to increased health problems and medical care costs. With the right preparation, you can have the knowledge and ability to prepare healthier meals.
3. Fitness and Movement Ability – Staying active is another essential independent living skill. Staying active, whether or not you have disabilities to work around, is vital and can reduce your risk of injury. Strength training and movement practice, such as yoga, will help maintain strength, keeping you from losing balance and falling. 
4. Willingness and Ability to Adapt – Families need to help aging members where possible, but not everyone has family nearby to teach them about technology updates or other helpful improvements.Being willing to adapt and learn will help with any new transitions that occur in the future.  For example, you may want a part-time job or return to school to keep your mind sharp and stay active and engaged in your community. 
5. Effective Communication – Communicating effectively is vital in every stage of life, and as a senior, you need to not be afraid to speak up for yourself. Whether you need help with your budget, have a problem with your teeth, or recognize that you are having trouble doing something you used to do easily, you must be able to communicate well so others can help you when you need it.  
6. Self-Advocacy for Security – Along with good general communication, it’s valuable for you to be your own advocate. You know your body best, so work with your doctor if you notice a change and take advantage of any resources offered to you. When you prepare for aging and focus on the transition, you can often develop independent living skills more quickly. 
7.  Stress Management and Regulation – Controlling stress is a valuable skill at any age because stress can hurt your health. Older adults who struggle the most with independent living tend not to have ways of regulating their stress and emotions. If you have a job you like, hobbies to enjoy, or other ways to keep stress at bay, it will go a long way to keep you happy and healthy.  
8.  Self-Esteem or Contentment – Feeling content in life or comfortable with yourself matters, too, because independent living requires good mental health. If you are anxious or depressed, it can be a lot harder to get through the day all by yourself. Personal care may suffer, tasks will not get done, and your budget could suffer, too.  
9.  Transportation Skills – Whether you drive a car or use public transportation, the goal is to ensure you have access to the people and services you need to get around. If you start to notice differences in your vision and cannot drive anymore, for example, you want to make sure you have other people or agencies you can contact to help you get around. 

Top 3 Reasons to Consider Caregivers or Assisted Living 

If you or a loved one lacks the independent living skills needed to age-in-place, or remain safely and independently at home, it may be time to consider help. This could include ongoing assistance with specific tasks, options to manage medical care, and even help with laundry, hygiene, or picking out and putting on clothes. 

When older adults struggle with food, basic activities of daily living, or other issues, it is essential to identify the problem and find the right ways to treat it. Whether that is someone who comes into your home and provides in-home care or you are considering a move to an assisted living community, making the right choice can improve your quality of life. 

Here are three reasons to consider an alternate option to independent living: 

1. Falling or Frequent Injuries – Falling can cause significant injuries, and that is especially true in seniors. If you are starting to fall frequently or have other injuries that happen often, it may be time to find additional help and someone who can perform various tasks, such as making meals and keeping your home clean. Falls and injuries could also mean the need to transition to assisted living so you do not have to worry about taking care of your house.  
2.  Challenges With Hygiene, Food, and Care – Eating, showering, and cleaning are essential ADLs, and when you start facing many difficulties in one or more of these areas, it is time for some help. Fortunately, there are resources for older adults who may need a service to come in, so you are getting healthy food and staying clean. 
3.  Memory or Financial Concerns – If you begin having trouble remembering things and struggling to manage bills, it may be time to reach out for support. Many seniors are also vulnerable to financial scams, which can cause serious problems for future security. It’s not always easy to see your needs in these areas—or admit the need—but assessing your life routinely and looking for areas that might put you at risk is essential.  

The Support You Need for Living Independently 

If you or a loved one wants to continue living independently but may need a little extra help, CarePatrol offers senior care advisory services at no cost to you.  

We provide senior care solutions to help you find the right community  From the option to maintain independent living to the need for additional services at home or in a care community, we’re here to give you the information and support you need. 

Reach out to a local senior care advisor today.