Many seniors like living alone. They don’t want a roommate, they don’t want to live in a retirement community, and they don’t want to live with family. After years of communal living, the idea of a few years of “alone time” can be quite intoxicating.
Living alone can foster a lovely sense of independence, but it does come with a number of risks. Even if you enjoy your independence, coming home to an empty house can get old in a hurry.
Preventing the doldrums associated with loneliness will be your first responsibility.
- Join a senior center, frequent local libraries, take college classes or find a community center. Seek out ways to meet people and learn something at the same time.
- Find a part time job or volunteer at a local charitable foundation.
- Buy a computer. When you live alone, your computer is the best way to connect with the outside world.
- Get out of the house every day and get some exercise.
- Get a pet.
The second responsibility is home safety:
- Accidents happen. If you fall or have a stroke at home, no one will know. Everyone living alone should have a medical alert system in case of falls or other emergencies.
- Safety-proof your house.
- Make arrangements for a family member or neighbor to watch out for you. Someone who will notice if you don’t pick up your papers or the lights don’t go on at night.
The third responsibility is to monitor your health care. Make healthy lifestyle choices; eat well and exercise regularly. Know your own limitations, be sensitive to changes and see your doctor regularly.
Be open to hiring outside help, or find a smaller house or apartment when home maintenance becomes an issue. Be open to other options when the time is right; stubbornness will get you nowhere. You can live on your own if you take your personal responsibilities seriously.
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