Independence can mean different things to different people, but if you’re like most of us, you want to stay in charge of your days, choices and lifestyle as you age.
By implementing some intentional choices now, you increase your chances of maintaining independence longer. The key is to create an independence road map that includes realistic strategies, supportive environments and small everyday actions you can take.
Independence doesn’t mean you’re doing everything alone. Instead, it’s about having the freedom and support you need to make your own choices and enjoying the process of aging.
Your ideal version of independence may include the following aspects:
Of course, your independence can shift over time as life circumstances and physical health change. You might notice that:
These concerns don’t mean that you’re “losing” independence. They simply mean the systems you use and rely on need to evolve along with you because you deserve more support and comfort. And here’s the empowering part: Proactively creating support systems actually enhances your independence instead of reducing or restricting it.
Staying independent is about doing what matters in ways that feel sustainable. Small habits and simple choices can make a big difference in how capable you feel and how much energy you have each day.
Find regular movement that you actually enjoy and can incorporate into your routine, such as yoga, gentle stretching, dancing, balancing and strength training. Pair that with foods that fuel your body and brain, including lean proteins, colorful produce and plenty of water to maintain hydration. Maintaining your strength and overall health can help you enjoy independence for longer, especially when it comes to activities of daily living, such as getting dressed and staying mobile.
Joel, a resident of Rydal Park & Waters, a HumanGood community near Philadelphia, has experienced the benefits of regular movement and camaraderie with fellow residents, thanks to joining a pickleball league. “Playing pickleball not only has improved my balance and increased my stamina and strength but has given me a social outlet. It’s a game that brings people together. ... It’s a great way to meet people, chat and exercise all at the same time.”
Your support system matters more than you might think. Staying socially connected boosts cognitive health, emotional resilience and daily motivation — three essential ingredients for long-term independence.
Most adults don’t mean to become isolated, but the process can happen slowly as life changes. Retirement can lead you to drift away from work colleagues, friends and family may relocate to other cities or states over time, and personal and medical circumstances may change the ability to engage with others. Creating a reliable social routine can prevent that slow drift. Start with small steps: Attend one new event a month, join a walking group or invite a neighbor to lunch. The goal isn’t to fill your calendar — it’s to keep your world feeling vibrant and connected.
Another option is to find a living environment that provides plenty of social opportunities at your doorstep. Marti moved to The Terraces of Phoenix, a HumanGood community, in search of support. Not only does the community provide practical support when it comes to caregiving for her husband, but she’s also found ways to invest and give back. From dancing and yoga classes to making food deliveries for neighbors, she has easy access to social connections and opportunities to make lifelong friends, even in a new location and a new phase of life.
Maintaining your independence is easier when the logistics of everyday health maintenance don’t feel overwhelming. Tools such as medication reminders and shared calendars can streamline your life. Keeping up with preventive care puts you one step ahead, and technology can be a powerful support system to track and maintain your health management.
Consider investing in the following, depending on your needs:
Maintaining your independence involves adjusting your surroundings when your personal or physical circumstances change. These adaptations could be as simple as adding grab bars in the bathroom, improving lighting in a dark hallway or reducing clutter around the house.
In other cases, opting for a living environment that preserves your independence might mean a bigger change. Consider rightsizing your living environment, whether that involves moving to a smaller home, a house without stairs or a senior living community.
The best time to plan for your future needs is before a medical or health crisis forces the issue. When you proactively make decisions, you stay in the driver’s seat and protect your preferences, meet your own needs on your own terms and prevent family stress.
Create a flexible plan by thinking about what you want now, what you may want later and how you can keep your options open. As your needs change, this strategy can preserve your independence as much as possible.
Independence is about living the life that you choose and creating pathways that make the process easier and more sustainable. With the right environment, routines, connections and support, you can experience more freedom, not less.
A Life Plan Community (sometimes known as a continuing care retirement community or CCRC) provides a wealth of resources and support that helps you maintain your independence for longer in a place that’s designed around you. Learn more about the advantages of a senior living community.