How a little help can actually make you more independent

We all know someone who has put off getting glasses or hearing aids because it will somehow make them seem “old” or diminished.

Sometimes, we are hesitant to accept assistance or help because we feel like it will somehow make us seem dependent or less capable. However, the reality is often that if we are willing to embrace small levels of assistance, we can maintain much greater levels of mobility and independence than we could without support.

These small steps are not failures, but successes in prolonging self-sufficiency.

Part of our mission at H.O.M.E. is to help older adults maintain their independence to the greatest extent possible. Throughout the year, we do that through our home upkeep and repair, shopping bus, moving assistance, and housing programs.

Each of these supportive programs provides small amounts of assistance that allow individuals to live with confidence and freedom. 

Assistive Resources Fair

This September, H.O.M.E. is hosting an Assistive Resources Fair where we will have the opportunity to share several resources that promote mobility and independence in the everyday lives of older adults. Participants include:

• Bucktown Foot & Ankle Clinic- enabling mobility by addressing lower extremity issues such as arthritis, tendonitis, and joint pain.
• Clear Captions- providing free access to phone communications for those who are hearing impaired.
• The Chicago Lighthouse- specialists who provide access to cutting-edge technology, assistive devices, and independent living aids to help individuals with visual impairments live life to the fullest.
• Luna Lights- developers of an ultra-thin bed sensor and automated lighting system that illuminates pathways to nighttime destinations, reducing fall risks.
• Northside Audiology Group, Inc.- audiologists providing a variety of hearing health care services, including hearing assessments, rehabilitative services, education, and counseling.
• Tobii dynavox- provider of augmentative and alternative communication devices that allow individuals with communication challenges to communicate more effectively.

If you, a friend, family member or client are looking for ways to prolong independence and increase mobility, please join us on September 12th at our Nathalie Salmon House (7320 N. Sheridan Rd.) from 10 am – 12 pm.

Admission is free and all are welcome.  Questions, please contact Judy Smith at judys@HOMEseniors.org or (773) 295-4077.