January 19, 2022 | Advance Care Planning, Aging Life Care, Maintaining Independence
New year, new you? Well, we like you just as you are! We are also not huge fans of new year’s “resolutions,” which seem to evaporate for many of us by mid-January. But … we do want to see our clients thrive and age well. So, allow us to suggest some specific, achievable steps that will help you in 2022 and in the years to come.
Get regular checkups
See you doctor, dentist, and eye care professional regularly. Regular checkups can help spot potential problems early, and ensure that any medications or supplements you’re taking are appropriate and effective. Get online or call your provider to make an appointment, then you can check this one off!
Eat healthy and exercise your body and mind
Take care of your physical and mental health by eating well and getting the recommended amount of exercise. And, remember to nurture your mental health and brain health as well. Keeping yourself mentally challenged and stimulated is just as important as physical fitness. Taking care of both will build your mental and physical resilience for the challenges life throws at us. Set one achievable goal for this week, whether it’s taking a walk with a friend, signing up for a class, or downloading that new word puzzle game.
Find ways to connect with others
As we’ve learned from the pandemic quarantines and distancing, loneliness can literally kill people. Find ways to connect safely with others that work with your interests, your needs, and safe social distancing. You may consider yourself an introvert, but the right kinds of interactions with others are still important. Haven’t seen your friends in a while? Organize an online “meet up,” or a walk on the beach. Participating in alumni groups can be another great way to connect with others who have something in common with you.
Get your paperwork in order
Make sure your healthcare and end-of-life wishes are spelled out in official documents. Who will communicate your healthcare wishes if you become unable to do so? That’s what your healthcare power of attorney is for. How will doctors know your wishes when it comes to extraordinary, life-saving measures? That’s where your advance healthcare directive comes in. Having these documents prepared will help ensure your wishes are followed, and relieve your loved ones and friends from the burden of having to guess what you would want. Seek the advice of an estate planning attorney, or you can get started with the free California Advance Health Care Directive form. (PDF)
Explain your wishes to your loved ones and caregivers
You’ll want to discuss your wishes with the person you name as your healthcare power of attorney, of course, but you should also be sure any other loved ones or caregivers are up to date. Having your wishes spelled out can prevent disagreements and allow loved ones to focus on providing the support and comfort you need. The Conversation Project (PDF) has some helpful tips on initiating these sometimes awkward, but important conversations.
Update your home for safety and aging in place
If your goal is to “age in place,” make sure your home is safe and can accommodate you. Perhaps you’ll need better lighting, grab bars in the bathroom, or a toilet that is higher. Would your rooms be easy to navigate if you needed to use a walker? Are kitchen cabinets easily accessible? Many of these updates are good for people of any age.
At Windward Life Care, we can help you take the steps on your path to aging well. We provide guidance as well as referrals to experts in finance, legal matters, and other specialties. We have no financial interest in the businesses we recommend – our only interest is seeing our clients prepared and able to age well.
Happy New Year! Please let us know how we can help you plan.