Photo by Cade Martin, Dawn Arlotta, USCDCP on Pixnio

They say you are only as old as you feel. This is true. Age is just a number, so taking care of yourself is the most important thing you can do in your senior years to maintain your independence.

Everyone's situation is different so it pays to give careful consideration to yours and plan appropriately. Do you live alone?  With a spouse that needs help?  Maybe you are OK now but will need assistance in the near future.

Consider you and your spouses medical requirements. Speak to your GP and pharmacist and find the best way to manage them at home and don't miss your medical appointments.  Be proactive with your medical checkups and get on top of things before they become more serious. Also be prepared for medical emergencies. Maybe give someone you trust permission to discuss your health care with medical professionals and where a medical alert bracelet.

Pay special attention to diet and exercise. You could pursue cooking as a hobby. This will keep your body and mind active and at the same time you can learn to prepare healthy foods that are suitable to your specific dietary requirements. 

Get outside for some fresh. Its free. Go somewhere! anywhere, it doesn't matter. Walk to the letterbox and back or stroll the length of the beach. Do what ever you can manage on a daily basis. It all helps and will benefit you in the long term.

If you or your spouse are having difficulty with anything that will help you stay living in your home longer there are many ways you can get help.

• NDIS OR National Disability Insurance Scheme - Am I eligible is a great checklist provided by the government that can help you determine if you may be eligible for NDIS funding.
• My Aged Care - Home Care Packages  provides a information pathway on accessing aged care packages. Help at Home will give you more general information about My Aged Care

If you already have funding or you have your own funds for services, you have many options for at home assistance. You can take a look at the services we have been providing the local community for over 14 years which include meal preparation, transport to and from appointments or social engagements, personal care such as bathing or mobility assistance and domestic support such as cleaning and ironing.

Utilising the services available to you may well help you and your loved one stay at home in your own environment longer and increase your well being at the same time.