Getting older doesn’t mean giving up your independence or losing control over your life. In fact, seniors can gain a great deal of empowerment by taking charge of their health and lifestyle choices. Here are some ways that seniors can maintain their independence and feel empowered in their daily lives:

• Stay active – Exercise helps keep the body and mind healthy and strong. Whether it’s a daily walk, yoga class or swimming, staying active will keep your body and mind sharp.

• Stay connected with family and friends – Social support is critical to seniors’ wellbeing and helps prevent loneliness and isolation. Keep in touch with friends and family through phone calls, emails, or video chats.

• Learn something new – Engaging in lifelong learning can be empowering and satisfying. Whether it’s taking a cooking class, learning a new language or picking up a musical instrument, pursuing new interests can add excitement and purpose to life.

• Take control of your health – Regular check-ups, screenings and preventative care can help you stay healthy and catch potential health concerns early on.

• Seek out assistance when needed – It’s ok to ask for help when needed. Whether it’s recruiting family and friends or accessing community resources and services, accepting help can go a long way in maintaining independence.

Overall, senior independence and empowerment come from taking an active role in one’s life, staying connected with loved ones, learning new things, maintaining good health, and seeking help as needed. By following these tips, seniors can live life to the fullest while maintaining their independence and control.