What is “self sufficiency?”
- Jooyoung Choi
- Jun 21, 2023
- 1 min read
Self-sufficiency for elderly includes a variety of elements, such as care, social interaction, and cognitive abilities. Governmental initiatives are essential in addressing these issues and promoting older people's independence.
Care:
Public policies can emphasize the provision of easily accessible and reasonably priced healthcare services for the elderly. Access to geriatric care, routine health examinations, preventive screenings, and specialized services for conditions common to senior citizens are all included in this. For those who require additional assistance, policies can also support long-term care options like assisted living or nursing homes as well as home healthcare services.
Promoting older adults' participation in social activities is crucial for their wellbeing and independence. Government policies can support neighborhood initiatives that promote social interaction, such as senior centers, leisure activities, and volunteer initiatives.
Age-friendly environments can be created by organizations with incentives, ensuring seniors' accessibility and inclusivity. In addition, policies can emphasize initiatives like welcoming visitor programs and tech training to improve digital connectivity to combat social isolation and loneliness.

(Donation of Necessities: A form of care provided by government/Non-Profits)
Cognitive abilities:
Government policies can support initiatives that support older adults' cognitive health. This could entail providing funding for studies on dementia and other cognitive disorders, raising public awareness of them, and providing tools for early detection and treatment. To maintain and improve cognitive abilities, policies can also support initiatives for brain fitness, lifelong learning, and cognitive stimulation.
Governments can also encourage the creation of age-friendly communities by enacting laws that guarantee accessible transportation, secure housing, and infrastructure tailored to the requirements of senior citizens.
Pensions, social security, and initiatives to promote affordable housing are all financial assistance programs that can help older people become self-sufficient.