Independence is important to most of us, particularly as we get older. But aspects of aging can make even the most self-sufficient of us feel vulnerable. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do that will help you live independently into your later years, or for as long as it’s safe and healthy for you to do so.

Enlist help where you need it
Being independent doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t ask for help when you need it. As you get older, it might be more difficult to do some of the tasks you used to take for granted – like moving a heavy item or even changing a hard-to-reach light bulb. If you feel you need assistance, ask a friend or family member to help, or hire the services of a local and trusted handyman for odd jobs that may be too tricky for you to tackle on your own.

Make your home work for you
Your home should feel like a safe, comfortable space, where the things you need are easily accessible. Conduct an audit of each area in your home and decide how you can make it work better for you. Do you need to place a reading lamp alongside your favourite armchair? Do you have two handsets in different parts of your house, so you don’t need to run when the phone rings? Are the appliances you regularly use within easy reach? Do you have a list of emergency numbers clearly displayed in case you need to call someone in a hurry? Implementing small changes can make a big difference in how secure you feel in your home.

Consider a retirement village
If you’re planning on living independently for as long as you can, you may want to consider buying into a retirement village. Here, you’ll be able to enjoy living in your own home while benefiting from the amenities offered by the development. Typically, these include a high level of safety and security, maintenance and upkeep of the estate, and on-site healthcare facilities. And, given the range of social events and activities that are often on offer, you’ll also enjoy a sense of connection and community with those living around you.