Senior proofing your house is a good idea. No argument there, but why does everyone suggest that there is more to do. Have you considered remodeling yourself?
What does that mean? You are doing fine. Why does everyone think that you need to change? Why won’t people leave you alone?
Duh! This is one time in your life that you should not want everyone to leave you alone. Chronic conditions that you have never heard of are lurking in the wings, not to mention that you tire more easily and you notice a new ache or pain every day.
You might be pleased to know that you can fight it. You will never return to the way you were, but you can create some safeguards to help you navigate your world. Nature did a pretty good job of taking care of you when you were young, but this time it is all going to be on you.
You can evaluate yourself, but you need to know that most people have trouble with this. It might be better to have someone impartial do this. Two options: you can read a book on successful ageing, or you can consult a geriatric specialist.
Try not to be offended by the questions asked. An evaluation is not a test. It has not been designed to trip you up or make you feel bad about yourself.
The first thing a professional looks at is how well you are managing your “activities or daily living.” They want nothing more than to make sure that you are getting around safely and are capable of taking care of yourself.
It is a big ask but you need not feel ashamed if you fall short in certain areas. Learning to identify problems and correcting them is more productive than just hoping that nobody will notice.
Taking care of “activities of daily living” might seem irrelevant because you have always done these things for yourself, but bathing, walking, driving, shopping, preparing meals, and dressing are a big deal. Only your desire to live independently is going to help you now. Are you up for it?
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