It’s Time to Celebrate National Senior Independence Month!

February is National Senior Independence Month, and it’s as much about celebrating the seniors in our communities as taking the initiative to help them preserve their independence for as long as possible. With a little help and these tips from our in-home respite care team,  you can help seniors live a fuller, happier and healthier life:

• Promote senior accessibility. With a few changes that don’t impact greatly on the rest of the community, spaces can become far more senior-friendly! Ramps are one feature we often see, but traffic patterns can also be adjusted to suit a pedestrian population. Seniors’ taxi services and public transportation can also make a great impact on your senior community, as well as keeping sidewalks clear of debris.
• Accessible, affordable housing. Affordable housing is a priority for many groups in the community, but seniors are especially under pressure due to limited or no earning potential, and requiring housing that they can manage and use easily. The most senior-friendly communities have zoning laws which permit assisted living facilities and homes on small lots.
• Community-based caregiving. Although we all live busy lives, it doesn’t take much effort to lend a hand to your senior community — and will make a huge difference in their ability to stay independent! Food programs like Meals-on-Wheels, donating clothing and blankets, helping to install grab rails and lighting, or even just volunteering to walk the dog or clear the snow off the steps of an elderly person’s home are all fantastic ways to give your time. If you own or run a business, it’s also an opportunity to offer senior discounts and participate in charity through your products and services.
• Realize the value of seniors. Seniors have a lot to offer their communities, and cities and towns that integrate different generations are often happier and healthier for all who live there. Seniors often bring a huge skill set that they can pass on to younger generations, and mentoring programs also benefit seniors by creating purpose. Seniors make up a big proportion of volunteers and caregivers in communities, from providing babysitting and care to those who need it, to giving children lessons in music, reading and other valuable skills. Keeping seniors involved and a part of the greater community, helps them to remain independent and live life to the full.

Senior Independent Home Care Services – Keeping NJ Seniors Healthy, Happy and Cared For

Whether you need residential in-home respite care in NJ or need someone qualified and experienced to assist your loved one on a more permanent basis, we are here to help through our HomeWorks program. Our staff are fully certified in New Jersey and have senior care training and experience, so please feel free to ask for formal certification and references.