United Nations (UN) has declared the decade of 2021-2030 as the DECADE OF HEALTHY AGEING. This is part of an agenda for sustainable development, leaving no one behind. One of the identified action items to achieve this is urging governments globally to support healthy ageing. It translates to senior independence with less hospitalization and healthcare expenses.
Here are some of the most important aspects of senior independence:
- Physical independence that guarantees mobility.
- Emotional independence that aids healthy living.
- Financial independence that gives freedom of choice.
- Social independence that gives sense of inclusivity.
Let us go into detail of these
1 Physical Independence
It is the ability to move freely without depending on others. Being healthy is the best way to retain your mobility. To remain healthy, one must focus on diet. Back it up with regular exercise because it matters. Periodic health check-ups are a must, even if you feel there are no specific issues. However, one must understand the needs of your ageing body and act accordingly. It would mean ensuring an accident-free home, as one of the main reasons seniors lose mobility is sustaining injuries through falls. Audit your home and make necessary changes for a safe living environment, such as installing grab bars, using anti-skid mats, exploring smart home systems, etc. If you have any balance issues, avail mobility aids and wear practical attire such as comfortable clothing and footwear.
It is very disheartening to note that generally Indian homes do not give serious thoughts on these matters as precautionary measures, changes only happen after some accident or calamity.
2 Emotional Independence
As we age, the cell metabolism in our body flounders a bit. Studies say people with higher cognitive enrichment can tolerate more wear and tear in their brains, delaying cognitive decline. This can be achieved through activities that give joy, like traveling, taking part in hobbies, learning something new, etc. Also, start with an acceptance of the situation. For example, if your kids are away try to visit them or vice versa, and spend quality time together whenever possible. For the part where you expect their support, build an alternate network. This network must include known people for healthcare needs, household work, etc. You could also become members of senior communities, which offer value-added services to fill the void created by your children’s absence.
In our country earlier the support of one’s children was always there. But slowly that system is not available to many of the seniors, because due to globalization the children are moving to other cities, even nations for their jobs. Here the support network as mentioned above, plays an important role.
3 Financial Independence
It is the crux of senior independence. If you are financially dependent on others, it will severely curb your decision-making capabilities. Making the right choices for your healthcare, living environment, seeking emotional support, etc., can become challenging. Invest wisely by seeking information through trustworthy avenues to ensure your money is safe. If you depend on anyone for your transactions, the chances of fraud or mismanagement rise. To the extent possible, avoid debts, as paying them back can take the joy out of your retired life. Health insurance is a must in your financial planning to manage contingencies. Ensure your financial planning also covers estate planning to streamline things for your family when you are no longer there.
In our country, rising inflation, and reduction in bank interest rates have severely hampered the financial management of seniors. There are not many benefits given by the government to the senior citizens, and whatever was available pre Covid days have not been restored to date. So with limited funds availability, many seniors are not able to achieve financial independence.
It is also essential to seek awareness about various frauds that occur these days. Keep your ears and eyes open and never do anything in panic, as scamsters capitalize on that. Learn to identify possible fraud scenarios and follow with complaints to the authorities, if something happens
4 Social Independence
We do not discuss senior abuse enough in our country, though it does happen. Understand there is no shame in seeking help in a worst-case scenario. Know your rights and stand up for them if anyone abuses you verbally, physically, financially, etc. Being socially independent requires updating yourself to use new technology. Keep yourself active and happy by engaging in social activities that give you happiness.
Seniors are an essential part of our society, and they should assert their right to live independently and participate equally in nation-building activities. In the end Happy, Healthy Ageing.
Waiting for your views on this blog.
Anil Malik
Mumbai, India
22nd August 2023