Your first steps, as a toddler, were a big deal. You knew, right then, that you were the master of your universe. You could do go anywhere, and you could do anything. As time went on, unless you were a marathon walker/runner, you did not give the joy of ambulation much thought, until now.
Painful joints, sore feet, decreased visual acuity and inner ear glitches have all done a number on you. Your confidence has taken a beating, and the fear of falling is always in the back of your mind.
You no longer feel a “spring” in your steps, and it requires a certain amount of concentration to just pick up your feet and walk in a straight line. In some instances, you may have to rely on a cane or a walker to keep you balanced. The goal is to get you from point A to point B without falling on your face.
Another task you take for granted is getting dressed in the morning. This task has many facets and includes doing laundry, selecting snappy outfits, and the physical acts of pulling on your socks or buttoning a shirt. If people see you wearing a soiled shirt or sloppy slippers, they are not going to take you seriously.
Urinary Incontinence. Many seniors deal with urinary incontinence. It is a delicate subject. Nobody feels comfortable talking about it, not even to their health care professionals, but ignorance is not bliss. These experts will recommend exercises, medications, products and even surgeries to help manage the inconvenience. You are not alone, and it is nothing to be ashamed of. Do not be too embarrassed to ask for help.
Nutrition. This is the big one. Good nutrition does not just happen. Putting together nutritious meals can be challenging if you live alone and your appetite is poor. Adequate nutrition involves making choices, grocery shopping, meal preparation, and being willing to accept help.
Make a good impression by handling mobility, dressing, toileting, and nutritional issues. It is called self-care, and it is an essential part of independent living.
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