2023-05-29 12:00:18
More and more people are looking grow old at home independently and actively. This fact becomes especially important in a society in which close to half of the population is over 65 years of age, specifically a total of 21.5 million Spaniards according to INE data.
“Public institutions, as well as companies, play a fundamental role in promoting active aging by creating a favorable environment for the senior population. Specifically, importance must be given to the creation of policies that promote activities and programs that favor the well-being of these people, as well as adapting the infrastructures to their needs, making them more accessible”, says Alberto Badás, marketing manager of Stannah Spain.
Independent and active aging is understood from three basic pillars: physical, mental and social, always seeking maximum well-being. In this way, Stannah Spain, as the world’s leading mobility manufacturer, proposes a series of tips to improve physical, mental and social well-being with the aim of promoting aging at home independently and actively.
physical well-being
Over the years, physical well-being is affected in different areas: mobilityloss of sensitivity of certain senses such as sight or hearing and even greater predisposition to suffer from cardiovascular diseases.
A good diet, as well as regular physical activity and a good daily rest are essential to guarantee physical well-being. However, it is true that the passage of time is inevitable and, therefore, it is important to use aid that facilitates the daily life of those over 65 years of age.
In this sense, two should be highlighted: the home adaptation and the use of technologies assistance and health control.
In reference to the first, it should be noted that the majority of Spanish homes are not built following the criteria of the geronto-architecture, which works on accessibility and safety to promote the independence and well-being of the elderly. In this sense, it is important to improve accessibility both within the home itself and in common spaces.
Thus, it is key to remove obstacles that could cause falls, bet on open spaces, adapt the width of the doors to allow walkers and wheelchairs to enter, install non-slip floors and ensure any type of unevenness. With respect to this last point, there are various solutions, from a simple ramp to more advanced solutions such as a chair or stair lift to elevators for the community and also private ones. “Every time we see how more people show a great interest in the installation of single family elevators in their homes with the aim of not only improving accessibility in two-story homes, but also revaluing their market value”, Alberto points out.
On the other hand, health care and control technologies are of great support to improve the quality of life of those over 65. A good example are smartwatches to measure heart rate and physical activity, activity monitors more advanced to monitor heart rate, blood pressure or sleep quality and reminder devices for taking medications and attending medical appointments.
Mental and social well-being
He Social isolation It is one of the main problems that affect the senior population and can harm their mental well-being. Therefore, it is important to take measures to alleviate it. Thus, keeping in touch with friends and family, participating in community activities – in centers for the elderly or neighborhood associations – and even using technology – video calls, social networks, etc. – to communicate with other people are good examples.
Likewise, it is important to have psychological and emotional support that promotes mental health and helps address that feeling of loneliness and sadness that can cause social isolation in the elderly.
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