As you approach retirement age, you are probably thinking about what life will look like in the next 20 years.
You will need to make some changes if you want to grow old comfortably.
Here’s how to prepare for old age.
Adapt your home
You should begin by adapting your home. If stairs have become a challenge, you might want to consider moving to a ground-floor bedroom so that going up and down the stairs is easier.
You also need to make sure that you have easy access to everything in your home.
Prevent falls
Falls are one of the biggest causes of accidents in older people.
You can prevent falls by making simple changes to your environment, such as putting anti-slip strips on areas that get wet a lot and installing grab bars near the toilet and shower.
You should also install handrails along staircases and consider replacing old rugs with solid surfaces.
Consider your housing options
Once your home is ready for old age, you should consider the housing options available to those who are approaching retirement.
You may want to move into a care center so that you can get the care and support that you need.
In many countries, there are government-run homes where residents can get basic services such as three meals a day, health care, and transportation.
Think ahead about how to get the help you may need
You should also think about how to get the care that you may need in the future.
In many countries, there are government-run homes where residents can live for a monthly fee and receive basic services such as three meals a day, health care, and transportation.
Alternatively, you should consider home care options that will allow you to stay in your own home.
Plan for emergencies
You should plan for emergencies. Make sure to have a family member designated as your emergency contact and keep in touch with that person regularly.
You also need to decide whether you will be staying at home when faced with an emergency or if you would prefer to go somewhere else.
If you do want to stay in your own home, then you should consider putting an emergency kit together and keeping it by your side.
It should contain information about all of your medications, as well as contact numbers for family members and doctors.
Think about the future
You need to think about how your life will look in 20 years’ time.
Will you be able to live on a fixed income?
If not, then you should think about investing your retirement savings to provide another income stream.
Get involved in the community
As you get older, it is important to give back to the community by getting involved in activities that interest you.
You can volunteer at a local organization or take part in a high-intensity exercise routine at a gym.
You could also get involved in a social club that meets regularly to share interests and hobbies.
Write advance care directives
If you get sick and need some form of care or medical treatment, then it is important that you write advance care directives so that your wishes are clear to the people providing your care.