How to maintain dignity and autonomy in old age

Imagine that at an advanced age you lose the ability to drive a car. What would be your first reaction?

I would feel as if someone took my freedom away.
I would take it as a natural shift, but I would look for ways to maintain movement.
I would feel like I am a burden.
I would focus on new ways to be constantly useful.
I would feel relief – less responsibility.

How would you react if someone started reminding you regularly about the medications you need to take?

I would appreciate their care.
I would be concerned that they think I can't handle it.
I would ask them not to do it – I have my own system.
It would encourage me to focus more on my health.
I would accept it, but only from someone I fully trust.

Imagine that your loved ones offer to move in with you to help you. How do you feel?

I appreciate it, but I'm afraid I would lose my privacy.
With enthusiasm – family means everything to me.
Torn – I want help, but also my own space.
I disagree – I want to manage by myself as long as I can.
I would feel controlled, not supported.

Which image is closest to you when imagining dignified aging?

An older person who engages in conversations with younger individuals and inspires them.
An independent person in a small house with a garden.
Common living of multiple generations under one roof.
A person who dedicates themselves to their passions – writing, music, traveling.
Silence, peace, contemplation in nature.

How do you react when someone wants to help you with something without you asking them to?

I appreciate it, but I keep telling myself, "I can handle it on my own."
I will be pleased, it's nice to be perceived.
I have mixed feelings – between gratitude and irritation.
It depends on who it is.
I feel inadequate even though I know they mean well.

Which idea frightens you more?

Dependency on other people.
Forgetting – that they will forget me.
Physical pain and limitation.
Loneliness, even when I am surrounded by people.
The inability to express one's opinion.

How would you react if someone suggested that they would handle the administration for you that you have always managed by yourself?

I would take it as a relief – some things are already too complicated.
Certainly not – it is my responsibility.
It would depend on how they proposed it to me.
I would appreciate it, but I would like to remain part of the decision-making process.
I would accept it, but only as an exceptional assistance.

Which of the following environments would you choose for the last years of your life?

A small house somewhere in the countryside.
An apartment in a city where I have access to culture and services.
Living with family in a shared household.
Community of active seniors with similar interests.
A place where I can serve others - as a mentor, a volunteer.

If you had the chance to write a letter to your future older self, what would definitely be mentioned in it?

"Don't forget who you are."
"Forgive yourself more and observe yourself less."
"Be patient – you don't have to handle everything right away."
"Don't be ashamed to ask for help when you need it."
"You can be a gift to someone even then."

What kind of influence would you like to have on the people around you, even in old age?

To be a wise observer who discreetly guides.
To be a source of peace and understanding.
To be an active member of the community who drives things forward.
To be a reminder that life is a gift.
To be a living proof that one can live with dignity until the end.

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