 | Ange Aubrey, holds the position of Community & Development Relations for Wichita Lifeline, Inc., a Not for Profit organization offering security and peace of mind for individuals and their family members. The Lifeline service provides the security for individuals to remain in their own homes with the peace of mind from knowing help is available at the push of their personal help button. Wichita Lifeline, Inc. provides personal emergency response service for the elderly, disabled and individuals whose health is at risk. Prior to her position with Wichita Lifeline, Inc., Ange provided, for over 14 years, case management and advocating for youth and adults. Her career change to Healthcare Marketing provides her the opportunity to utilize her excellent presentation skills of the Lifeline service to various groups and promoting the benefits of the often lifesaving service within the community. Ange may be reached at 316-265-1700 to schedule a presentation for community groups, or visited at Wichita Lifeline’s office located at 149 S. Ridge Rd. |
Senior Living
2007-07-01 16:13:00
How to remain independent
Answer: Living independently is the preferred choice for many older Americans. Living independently fuels a sense of physical, mental and emotional well-being. For many, staying in one’s own home is also practical from a dollars and cents point of view.
A senior with chronic health problems (such as heart disease, osteoporosis, or diabetes) may be cared for at home by a spouse, an adult child or a paid caregiver. The caregiver may work, so finding or incorporating ways to stay connected to others is important even if you’re not living alone.
Staying connected is important. Contact with others is vital for a sense of well-being and “connectedness.” Conversely, the less connected a person becomes, the greater risk of loneliness, isolation, depression, reduced appetite and less physical activity. Any of these conditions can, in turn, lead to a general decline in physical, mental, and emotional health and well-being.
The bottom line: if you’re living independently, take steps to stay connected!
Question: What are some activities older adults can do to stay connected?
Answer: A wide variety of non-medical home support services can be obtained, including:
Personal Emergency Response
Service
In- Home companion services
Transportation
Chore and personal care
Housekeeping
Meal programs
Exercising our mind helps keep us sharp, and helps prevent depression and decline.
Some suggestions are:
•Enroll in a computer class at a senior center
•Complete the daily crossword puzzle or Sudoku
•Learn to paint
•Learn a new language utilizing audiocassette tapes or CDs
•Challenge yourself to learn
something new every day
If possible, go to the senior center or attend an adult day program. Invite others to your home or identify volunteers from local community or religious agencies to provide friendly visitation in the home.
