By Michelle Sonia, President and CEO
Seniors Helping Seniors Boston South Shore
We all want to age successfully to enjoy our partner, our kids, our grandkids, our pets, our hobbies, traveling the world – not just go to the doctor every week. But what does that mean? How can we achieve this? We will explore strategies to accomplish just that.
Independence
A recent AARP survey found that 85% of older Americans want to age in their home, and this is likely to increase as the baby boomer generation reaches retirement. A few ways to help create a safe environment and enable you to stay in your home confidently as long as possible include: obtaining assistive devices you may need; danger-proofing your home (remove rugs, add grab bars in bathroom, brighter lights, move frequently used objects to easy to reach places), and taking a senior driver course.
Physical health
Staying on top of our physical health can be a challenge at any stage of life, and as we age this becomes even more important. Focus not only on preventive care and any specialized follow up (e.g., chronic conditions) but also ancillary services like dental, vision, and hearing. Finding ways to be physically active – whether at a health club or walking in your neighborhood – will contribute to your overall well-being. It is also important to follow a proper diet and consider nutritional requirements you may have. This includes eating balanced meals and supporting brain health (antioxidants; vitamins B6, B12, folic acid; Omega-3 fatty acids; and brain exercises like puzzles and reading).
Coping skills
Taking time to see the big picture can go a long way to support your emotional and mental well-being. Think of activities to help you relieve stress, like meditation. It is OK to ask for help; you may even benefit from joining a support group. Letting go of unrealistic expectations and giving yourself grace can help you communicate your goals and limits to loved ones.
Creative expression
Finding outlets to express yourself can enhance the coping skills described above. This may mean taking a class at a local community college, gardening, journaling, or participating in a spiritual community.
Staying involved
We all have days we want to relax at home, but it is also important to maintain social engagement. Think of creative ways to stay connected to friends and family who are far away, such as your own book club or monthly virtual coffee hour. You may enjoy volunteering with a local charity, participating in a community group focused on your favorite hobby, or joining an online network. Most towns across the South Shore have active programming at the senior center or council on aging that can be a great way to meet others and socialize.
Financial security
Managing finances into retirement is challenging. Seek advice from a reputable financial advisor or elder-care attorney to help understand available resources (VA benefits, mortgage options, life insurance, long-term care insurance). Proactive conversations with loved ones and trusted advisers can help to clarify and memorialize your future wishes. Detailed and transparent estate planning – including living will/advanced directive, health care proxy, power of attorney, DNR, and will – is particularly important. You may consider part-time employment to supplement your income.
Hopefully, these tips to age successfully are meaningful for you and your loved ones. Our goal at Seniors Helping Seniors Boston South Shore is to improve both dignity and quality of life to help our seniors age successfully. We pair seniors who would like to get out and stay active – as well as supplement their income – with other seniors in need of services. It’s a win-win.
About the Author: Michelle Sonia is the president and CEO of Seniors Helping Seniors Boston South Shore. Michelle grew up in Hanson and lives in Weymouth and holds a bachelor’s degree from Harvard University and a master’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Having worked in management consulting for more than 15 years, she is now excited about making an impact on her community. For more information, visit www.shsbostonsouthshore.com, email info@shsbostonsouthshore.com, or call 781-626-4800.
