Independence simply implies thinking and acting for oneself and having control over one’s own affairs. Many would agree that the value of independence is imprinted upon us from an early age. The ageing process might provide obstacles to our capacity to retain independence. The significance of independence itself, however, doesn’t just disappear, and it has a high value for seniors and people with chronic diseases.

Activities of daily living become more challenging as people age owing to a variety of factors, including declining mental and physical health and the presence of chronic diseases. The day may come when assisted living from outside parties is required. It is common for family members to take up the role of caring for an older relative. However, in time you may have to consider an assisted living community or retirement housing when your parents or loved one’s requirements become too complicated to handle alone.

There is a delicate line drawn between assisted living and a sense of independence, which is why we at Monarchs Senior Living have carefully tailored our service offering to ensure our residents’ independence and happiness, coupled with their family’s peace of mind.

Assisted Care Living And The Importance Of Independence For Seniors

A sense of loss of control or independence often accompanies the natural challenges of ageing, which can impair one’s performance of daily chores. Despite initial feelings of rejection or resistance, accepting aid from others may be a dignified experience if it is provided in the appropriate way.  

That’s the purpose of assisted care living facilities, after all: Providing seniors with the option to live out their retirement in a way that honours their individuality and independence with dignity.  This helps foster a sense of empowerment and confidence.

Retaining A Sense Of Self

When seniors lose their ability to do things on their own, they may feel that they’ve lost a significant part of who they are. Seniors have spent decades working, teaching, running errands, managing finances, etc., for themselves and their families. Depression and anger often set in when elderly people lose the ability to do the activities they enjoyed or make their own choices. As a result, they no longer identify with or feel like they have the same value as society at large. 

Seniors often feel more like themselves and preserve their sense of identity when engaging in even the simplest independent activities. With your loved one’s sense of self restored, they are free to build on other aspects of their independence and identity as they navigate this next chapter in their lives.

Improved Cognitive Abilities

Participating in various social, physical and routine daily activities helps maintain cognitive skills. This can help delay the onset of age-related cognitive decline and functional deterioration relating to dementia.

Although age-related memory loss is probable, being mentally active and retaining a sense of self can slow the process. Physical activity and mental engagement both boost blood flow to the brain, which aids with memory retention. In addition, consistency in one’s daily activities has been shown to improve both memory and self-reliance.

Improved Physical Well Being

Participating in a range of physical, social, and wellness activities helps maintain muscle strength and balance. This helps prevent falls and muscle deterioration. It also contributes to a sense of well-being, a strengthened immune system and a positive outlook.

Overall, independent retirement living contributes to:

  • Increased enjoyment and contentment; Better health and well-being.
  • Reduced hospital admissions.
  • Improved security; fewer injuries from loss of balance or falls.

High Quality, Affordable And Individualised Assisted Care Living 

We take pride in providing the residents at Monarchs Senior Living and their families with first-rate amenities and affordable assisted living. We can help your parents or loved ones retain a sense of independence by offering individualised treatment tailored to each patient’s specific requirements. Thereby instilling hope in your loved ones, confidence in their abilities and the freedom to pursue their life goals.

Get in touch today or book a tour of our independent retirement living establishment in Bryanston.