Staying independent in old age: 7 tips for more independence at home

The desire for independence knows no age. The familiar surroundings, the accustomed neighborhood, and one's daily routine provide security and contribute significantly to quality of life. Many people therefore want to continue living in their own homes for as long as possible, even in old age. Over the years, however, physical conditions can change: strength may decrease, balance may become more unstable, or vision may change. This can make familiar activities more strenuous and suddenly turn small obstacles into a risk. However, this by no means implies that a move to a care facility is inevitable. With proactive adaptations in daily life, practical aids, and a reliable safety net, one's home can be designed in such a way that an independent life remains safely and comfortably possible.

Our own four walls provide familiarity, but often harbor unnoticed risks in everyday life. Over the years, stride length, mobility, and reaction time can change. Obstacles that were once not a problem can then easily become a tripping hazard. A fall-proof environment is therefore one of the most important prerequisites for greater independence in old age. Loose carpets and rugs in particular can be treacherous. They should be secured with non-slip underlays or suitable adhesive tape, or removed entirely. Raised carpet edges, loose cables, and small pieces of furniture in frequently used walkways also increase the risk of falls. Good lighting is equally important. A bright, evenly lit hallway makes orientation easier. Automatic orientation lights with motion sensors can provide additional safety, especially at night on the way to the bathroom.

Also ensure that:

• frequently used paths remain clear,
  
• cables run behind furniture or baseboards,
  
• door sills are clearly visible or bridged with ramps,
  
• important items are stored within easy reach,
  
• stairs have sturdy handrails.
  

Often, no major structural changes are required. Even small adjustments can significantly improve freedom of movement and help prevent falls in your own home.

The bathroom is a place where independence and privacy are particularly important. At the same time, slippery tiles, moisture, and high entry points can increase the risk of falls. With a few structural and practical adjustments, the bathroom can be made significantly safer and more comfortable. Permanently installed grab bars next to the toilet, at the sink, and in the shower provide support and assistance when standing up. They should be professionally installed and designed to support body weight. A walk-in shower facilitates entry and reduces obstructive edges. If a complete renovation is not immediately possible, a sturdy shower stool and non-slip mats can quickly provide more safety.

Further useful adaptations include:

• a raised toilet seat,
  
• a hand shower with an easily accessible holder,
  
• easy-to-operate fittings,
  
• sufficiently bright lighting,
  
• easily accessible storage,
  
• non-slip flooring.
  

An emergency call system should also be available for use in the bathroom, as the telephone is often out of reach there.

Modern technology doesn't have to be complicated. When chosen correctly, it can take over physically demanding tasks and support an independent life without overwhelming everyday routines. Automatic vacuuming and mopping robots, for example, reduce the strenuous bending and vacuuming. Voice assistants enable you to control lighting, music, reminders, or sometimes even heating by voice command. Even in the kitchen, small tools help save energy and maintain independence. These include:

• ergonomic can and bottle openers,
  
• electric spice grinders,
  
• non-slip cutting boards,
  
• grabbers for higher shelves,
  
• easy-to-use kettles,
  
• automatic stove shut-offs.

It is important that the technology solves a specific problem. A device with many functions is not automatically the best choice. Crucial factors are ease of use, reliable function, and clear benefit in everyday life. Therefore, it is best to start with a specific question: Which activity is difficult or causes uncertainty? Then you can specifically look for a suitable everyday aid.

As important as home adaptations are, one's own body remains a central foundation for independence in old age. Muscle strength, mobility, and balance support many everyday activities – from getting up to climbing stairs and shopping. Although muscle mass and balance can decrease with age, they can still be specifically trained. Even regular walks bring movement into daily life, strengthen leg muscles, and stimulate circulation. Additionally, simple balance and strength exercises can help you stay surer on your feet. It is equally important to identify potential fall risks early and reduce them specifically. In our free e-book on fall prevention, you will find further practical exercises, helpful everyday tips, and simple measures to strengthen surefootedness and balance in daily life.

Self-determination begins not only with physical mobility. Mental activity, emotional balance, and social contacts also play an important role. A structured daily routine can provide orientation and help you stay active. Regular meetings with family, friends, or neighbors foster exchange and prevent social contacts from decreasing unnoticed.

Suitable activities include:

• Courses at the community college,
  
• cooking together,
  
• reading and puzzling,
  
• board games,
  
• a new hobby,
  
• voluntary work,
  
• walking groups,
  
• video calls with relatives.
  

Learning new skills also challenges the brain. It doesn't have to be a big task. A new recipe, a digital device, or a creative hobby can already provide new impulses. The important thing is not to schedule every day completely. Crucial are activities that bring joy and fit into your personal daily life.

6. Utilize government grants and funding opportunities Many seniors and their relatives are unaware that long-term care insurance providers and government funding programs can financially support home adaptations. If a care level between 1 and 5 is present, the long-term care insurance provider can currently pay up to EUR 4,180 per person and measure for so-called home environment improving measures. This can include, for example, bathroom conversions, the removal of thresholds, or the installation of a stairlift. For consumable care aids, up to EUR 42 per month can currently be reimbursed. This includes, for example, disposable gloves or certain protective products. KfW also offers funding opportunities for measures to reduce barriers. Grant 455-B currently covers 10 to 12.5 percent of the eligible costs. In addition, a promotional loan for age-appropriate conversions is available. The funds and requirements should always be checked directly before beginning work. If you live in a rented apartment, you should discuss planned structural changes with the landlord in advance. Section 554 BGB provides, under certain conditions, a right to consent to structural changes that serve the use by people with disabilities. However, consent can be refused if the change is unreasonable for the landlord.

Advice is offered by, among others:

• Long-term care insurance providers,
  
• Care support centers,
  
• Housing advice centers,
  
• Consumer advice centers,
  
• Local senior advice centers.
  

Applications should ideally be submitted before a conversion is commissioned or started.

No care level yet?

A recognized care level is often a prerequisite for being able to claim certain benefits from long-term care insurance. You can find out how to apply for a care level, which documents are required, and how the assessment process works in our detailed magazine article: Applying for a care level: Insights from the Medical Service and long-term care insurance providers.

There you will find a step-by-step explanation of the application process, tips for preparing for the care assessment, and information on what to do if an application is rejected or if you want a higher care level.

Living an independent life does not mean ignoring risks or fundamentally doing without support. On the contrary: knowing that you will not be alone in an emergency can provide security and help you continue to live an active life. A personal safety net can consist of several components:

• regular contact with relatives or neighbors,
  
• a stored spare key,
  
• clearly visible emergency numbers,
  
• clear arrangements for emergencies,
  
• a mobile emergency call system.
  

An emergency call wristband is worn directly on the wrist, making it more accessible than a phone, which may be in another room or in a bag.

A mobile emergency call bracelet can be a valuable component of a personal safety net. The Gardia emergency call bracelet is worn directly on the wrist, making it more accessible in an emergency than a phone that might be in another room or a bag.

The wearer can trigger an emergency chain themselves via the central emergency button. In addition, the intelligent FallGuard360° fall detection works in the background. If it detects a possible fall, the emergency process can also start automatically if an active button press is no longer possible. Gardia works at home and on the go and does not require the wearer's smartphone. In an emergency, a voice connection can be established directly via the bracelet. Location information can also be transmitted to stored emergency contacts or optionally to a professional 24/7 emergency call center from Bosch.

With up to 21 days of battery life, the bracelet only needs to be charged infrequently. This means it stays on the wrist for a long time and can accompany everyday life without constantly demanding attention. The goal is not to control everyday life more strongly, but to create more security and support one's independence.

Independence in old age does not depend solely on physical fitness. A safe living environment, practical everyday aids, social contacts, and a reliable safety net also play an important role. A fall-proof home makes moving around safely within one's own four walls easier. Smart household helpers take over burdensome tasks. Regular exercise supports strength and balance, while social contacts and mental activity promote structure and joy of life. Accepting support does not mean losing independence. On the contrary, well-chosen aids can help you shape your everyday life according to your own ideas for longer. The Gardia emergency wristband complements these measures as a discreet companion. It can initiate an emergency chain at home and on the go and provide additional security – even if an active button press is no longer possible after a possible fall.