Independence is important as we battle daily chronic illness and disability or for our loved ones for whom we are caregiving.

As I was getting ready for the day, I realized so many things we have here in the house that allow me to be independent. These things range from simple placement of items in the house to various adaptive equipment that I have. These things likely seem simple to others, but allow me to manage day to day living.

• Simple placement of things would be keeping all items that are used frequently either in low cupboards or even on the counters in the kitchen. While this is not “Better Homes and Gardens” worthy, it is practical.
• Moving the laundry room up from the basement took more work initially, but has proved to be an amazing help.
• Keeping assistive walking devices in each room means being safe when weakness hits unexpectedly.
• A “reacher” has been a great help.
• For me, a vac-mop has meant being able to keep up with basic cleaning in between help coming. While it won’t deep clean, it does a great basic cleaning.
• A long-handled duster allows me to do as much as I can without using step-stools.
• Working to move as much as possible each day has proven to be so helpful in maintaining as much strength as I can. Some days, this is five minutes, others an hour.

This YouTube channel has many ideas for adaptability to maintain independence for as long as possible. This one gives two simple ways to maintain independence as long as possible.

What things have you found assist you with independence?