Celebrating Independence and the Fight to Keep It

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“Independence is indeed a blessing. As a country we celebrate it in grand style. But this desire for independence is also seen on an individual level…”

Independence is an attribute that is held in high regard. In fact, we have a whole day dedicated to the celebration of that very thing. A day where most of us have off work and we celebrate with friends and family while we enjoy BBQ, fireworks, and a day spent outside dressed in red, white, and blue. In fact, a 4th of July celebration can be quite the spectacle, as crowds form to watch late night firework shows, social media accounts mark the event with #merica (and other ridiculous hashtags), and freedom rings from coast to coast.

It can feel almost unpatriotic to admit I haven’t been to a 4th of July firework show in at least 4 years. As a parent to young kids and anxious dogs, packed crowds and loud firework displays haven’t been at the top of my priority list. But, celebrating independence and reflecting on our freedom doesn’t require fireworks.

Independence is indeed a blessing. As a country we celebrate it in grand style. But this desire for independence is also seen on an individual level. As a home care provider, I am confronted with the desire to remain independent on a daily basis. Often this desire is expressed as a fear–fear of losing one’s independence.

In the face of changing circumstance– advancing aging, challenging illnesses, limited mobility–the desire to remain home does not change. In fact, AARP reports, 96 percent of seniors wish to remain at home for as long as possible, and 80 percent believe that their current home is where they will always live. A home is vitality important to seniors, but at the heart, living in one’s own home signifies independence. When speaking with seniors and their families I hear how much they want to remain home, and often the underlying message being expressed is a desire to remain independent. 

Asking for help is not easy. The fear of losing independence may be an older adult’s greatest fear. We, at Preferred Care at Home, understand and we want to come along side and help. Senior home care provided in your home assists with tasks and activities that may become difficult with age. Qualified caregivers are available from a few hours a day to around the clock care, meeting your exact needs with a variety of care services.

Losing one’s independence does not have to be your fear. Remaining in the home you love and safeguarding your independence can be your reality. Independence is worth fighting for so let’s celebrate it every day–with or without fireworks.