There are many surveys that discuss the top concerns of seniors. Here is a compilation of the results. You can see what seniors across the country worry about.
Loss of Independence
Loss of independence can be discouraging to older adults. They have spent their entire lives living independently, working jobs, raising families, and making decisions. The natural effects of aging can sometimes make independent living harder. If a senior loses driving privileges they often lose independence and self esteem. To keep independence you must retain your own decision-making skills. Choosing your own daily activities helps keeps you independent. Maintain your mobility and keep up your strength. That way you can keep up your daily activities. Now is the time to maintain a healthy lifestyle and take good care of yourself. You must also keep a sense of purpose. Having something to do gives you a reason to live each day to the fullest.
Loneliness/Bereavement
Loneliness is a top concern of many seniors. They may no longer be able to drive. Children might have moved away. A significant other may have passed away. Such drastic life changes can be exceptionally difficult to deal with. They often can lead to depression, anxiety and isolation. If you are suffering from grief, you can reach out for help. Your church or your doctor can recommend someone to help.
One idea is to remain as close to family and friends as possible. New technology spans thousands of miles in milliseconds. It gives today’s seniors chances for stronger relationships with grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The internet can help you find and connect to old friends. Reach out to friends and stay connected through church, community and volunteer groups. Take advantage of senior transportation services, and ask for help if you need it.
Health Concerns
This is a broad topic about our well-being that is one of the top concerns of seniors, all seniors. It certainly includes routine appointments, medications, and insurance. But seniors have to be concerned about losing vision, loss of hearing, diminished mobility. In addition seniors worry about cost of care, long term conditions, caring for a spouse, declining memory and dementia issues.
Then there are the subjects of home health, nursing homes and doctor shortages. While we are not all blessed with great genes. We must do what we can in the best way we can to be all that we can be. If you find you cannot figure out all your health concerns, ask for help. Be aware that with the senior age group is growing so quickly, access to vital home and community services is expanding. More seniors can age in place. And today we have smart phones, tablets, and watches. These can provide a growing range applications for of lifesaving health care and improving quality of life.
Financial concerns
The list of top concerns of seniors certainly includes money. Many seniors fear running short of funds. Even those who have wisely put aside funds worry that they won’t have enough. They worry about what will happen to them and the burden they could place on their loved ones. Everything about retirement hinges on finances.
Get a financial advisor if you can. At the very least, make detailed budget. Factor in monthly expenses such as food, utilities, and housing. Include optional expenses such as travel and hobbies. Remember emergency money for vehicles, home repair, and similar big-ticket items you might need in the future. The cost of health care alone can cause financial strain. So comparing prices and coverage is necessary. Talking to an expert may be adisvable.
Ageism and lack of purpose
Another one of the top concerns of seniors is lack of purpose. Have you heard the phrase “put out to pasture?” Many seniors feel like they have no purpose. They may believe their useful days have passed. Studies show an increasing amount of self-isolation, depression and alcohol or drug overuse among retirees that didn’t retire TO something.
Find a cause, a hobby or a volunteer job. Ageism is discrimination (when someone acts on a prejudice) based on age. Ageist attitudes and biases based on stereotypes reduce elderly people to inferior or limited status. Ageism can vary in severity. But relating to the elderly in ways that are patronizing is offensive. Ageism can show up in the workplace, in healthcare, and in assisted-living facilities. In these settings the effects of discrimination can be quite severe. Ageism can make people fear losing a job. They can feel feel dismissed by a doctor. Some people can feel a lack of power and control in their daily living. Awareness is a good start. If you are senior facing age discrimination, you can seek help. Don’t feel like you have to face these problems alone.
Everyone should speak up. Don’t let ageism take root. Get involved in the community and in social events. This involvement might help to devise a purpose for you. It could expose others to a positive image of older persons.
Come up with new ways to involve older people in the community. Using clubs and social events, we can help all seniors maintain a sense of identity and self-esteem. We can also tap into the wealth of knowledge and experience seniors have.
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