Retiring and Dealing with a Loss of Independence

When it comes time to retire, you may become more relaxed as your life will slow down. The loss of any work-related stress can be a welcome relief and be good for your physical and mental health. But losing the daily structure and your work relationships can also be stressful and have a negative impact on your health as an older person.

As well as the above, as people get older and reach retirement age, they will inevitably find themselves becoming more dependent on others for help with their daily tasks. This sudden or gradual loss of independence is a natural part of growing older, but it is important to know how to cope with this change.

There are no set rules or easy fixes, but we are used to seeing this change and can offer some advice to help guide you through the difficulties you may start to face.

What are the signs of a loss of independence?

Physical health

One of the most common indicators that you might be losing your independence is when you are physically unable to do everyday tasks such as driving, cleaning and even just walking around comfortably. You may also experience some other signs such as a loss of sight or hearing, difficulty performing daily tasks, becoming less flexible, having an inability to lift objects or open jars and having a general decrease in your physical energy.

Emotional

Not all signs are physical, and depression can often go undiagnosed in elderly and retired people as often the physical impacts mean you can lose control of your emotions. Some other clear indicators of emotional impact are having increased irritability and anger, experiencing unexplained guilt and feeling helpless, being reluctant to ask for help and having more moments of confusion.

Social

There can also be social impacts of losing your independence, which may make you less likely to enjoy social activities and interactions with friends and family. Some signs of this include losing interest in social activities, not leaving the house even to do errands, forgetting appointments, and no longer keeping to any regularly scheduled social engagements.

How to cope with this:

First of all, remember that if you are starting to lose your independence, you are not alone. It is natural for you to have feelings of frustration, fear and even anger. But needing help and assistance with things in your own life happens to everyone as they age. There are ways in which you can adjust and cope to this new stage in life.

• Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You need help and that is ok! It will become more natural to you to ask the more that you do it. The people that you ask will more than likely be relieved that you have asked and will be more than happy to help you.
• Try to listen to advice from professionals and loved ones. This can be difficult if you are used to being an independent person. Try to remember that if someone thinks you may benefit from a walk-in bath or a stairlift, they only have your best interests at heart.
• Try and be as honest as possible with loved ones about how you are feeling. Your opinion still matters, and you still want to be able to make your own decisions but with their support and input.

How do you support a loved one who is experiencing a loss of independence?

This can be just as physically and emotionally exhausting as losing it yourself. You will want to support them in the best way that you can but deal with it sensitively. Try to be patient with them and remember that this is a huge change for them as they will have been going about their daily lives easily for years.

You could help them get out of the house and see friends and other family to help lift their spirits and lighten their mood. Why not do some research and make some suggestions to help them consider adding features in their own home that may help them such as a walk-in bath or stairlift?

It is important to keep asking them how they are feeling and don’t dismiss any of their thoughts or concerns. This is a really difficult time for them. And of course, look after yourself as well, it can be overwhelming to look after someone who is losing their independence.

How can we help you?

One great option to consider for your retired relatives is a retirement village.  A retirement village is a community for people generally over 60, centred around a hub of social activity. They offer older people the opportunity to live independently in a property they own, as part of a wider community.

It is an exciting, innovative and contemporary assisted living facility where owners can continue to live life to the full. Luxury retirement villages have a wide range of leisure activities, services, support and care and they promote well-being whilst helping the owners maintain an active and independent lifestyle.

Sometimes friends and family can only help so much, and you need to get more practical support. Care staff are on site 24/7 and flexible care services are carefully tailored to meet the specific needs of each resident. Care can be from as little as a reablement package, after a fall or a stay in hospital, assistance remaining independent in your own retirement home, through to compassionate end-of-life care.

If you and your partner have different care needs, this type of arrangement may suit both of you and allow you to continue living together.

We know that considering a move to a retirement village is a very personal one and a choice that has to feel right for you. Our village sales advisors are always available at the end of the phone to discuss and talk through any questions you may have.

Understanding the Importance of Independent Living

Independence is a cornerstone of human dignity, allowing individuals to make their own choices and shape their own lives. As we age, maintaining independence becomes even more crucial for our physical and mental health. It fosters a sense of purpose, boosts self-esteem, and enhances confidence.

For older adults, independence means feeling useful, staying mentally and physically active, and reducing the perceived burden on others. It also enables them to engage in activities they enjoy, maintain social connections, and stay involved in their community. To promote independence is to help older adults lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.

The Impact of Losing Independence

The loss of independence can profoundly affect an older person’s life, leading to feelings of frustration, anger, and depression. Physically, it can result in decreased activity levels and increased isolation, which can further deteriorate health.

Various factors, such as physical decline, cognitive impairment, and social isolation, can contribute to this loss. Recognizing the signs early and taking proactive steps to promote independence can help mitigate these effects and prevent further decline.

It’s essential to address both the emotional and physical aspects to support overall well-being.

Promoting Independence in Retirement

Promoting independence in retirement is vital for maintaining both physical and mental health. Older adults can take several steps to continue having independent lives for as long as possible.

Staying engaged in activities they enjoy, maintaining social connections, and staying physically active are key. Learning new skills, such as using technology, can also help. Seeking support from family members and caregivers is crucial, as is taking control of daily living tasks like preparing their own meals and participating in decision-making processes.

By actively promoting independence, older adults can enjoy a higher quality of life.