Growing older involves innumerable changes in your life, including everything from your financial situation and health to your living arrangements and social life. Elderly individuals must face internal questions of security and mental well being as these changes take place, but they shouldn't be forced to take on these challenges alone.
Learning how to depend on others for certain things is an integral part of the aging process and it doesn't necessitate relinquishing independence, but rather compromising on your perceptions of self-sufficiency. If your physical state, for example, makes it difficult or even impossible for you to take care of everyday chores, find someone responsible and capable of performing some of these duties for you. You'll be happier and more comfortable over all when you're better able to focus on other, more pleasant aspects of your life.
Another area in which many seniors experience difficulty as they age involves the effective management of their money. Several mental and memory problems, such as the dementia associated with Alzheimer's disease, make balancing a checkbook and keeping track of expenses extremely difficult and time-consuming. Friends, family members and caretakers tend to be very eager to help in any way possible, but they don't always know that you need them unless you take the time to ask. Asking for that kind of assistance may make you feel awkward or uncomfortable at first. This is entirely normal. Do your best to keep in mind that these people have your best interests in mind and that taking in the extra help is beneficial for everyone involved.
In addition to feelings of inadequacy and loss, elderly individuals often experience a fear of being alone. This fear is countered by a desire to remain independent and the result can be a sense of confusion and intensified anxiety. Ways to fight this type of detrimental mindset include calling friends and family members often, engaging in group hobbies with other older men and women in similar situations and focusing on all of the things at which you still excel. Contemplating the positive aspects of life on a daily basis can work wonders for the mind and body.