Maintaining independent living, wherever feasible, not only increases feelings of self-esteem, control and self-respect, but also eases day-to-day life by lowering dependence on others. That’s why the value of encouraging self-reliance in those with movement and strength concerns can not be overemphasised. In addition, increased independence creates a safer living surrounding, specifically in the elderly, as people are less likely to pose a danger to themselves when undertaking daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practising the methods described, independent living could be possible to many. To see how we can help Use a hoist
1. ONLY RELY ON HELP WHERE ESSENTIAL
As a carer, the trick to fostering productive independent living is by providing care only when it’s truly needed, as this will promote self-sufficiency where the patient is capable.Look at the below checklist, and decide which areas your patient really needs help with, and which they could really take care of themselves;- Prepping meals and shopping for meals- Cleaning, and other basic home duties- Organising bills and money- Driving- Personal grooming, and washingAltering care to only be provided where necessary is a key independent living aid, and will have a knock-on effect concerning the amount of visits the patient receives from those providing assistance, who will be providing assistance (family, care staff or doctors), and where assistance will be based (in-home, hospital or care-facility based).
2. IF POSSIBLE, HANDLE OWN PRESCRIPTION AND CONSULTATIONS
Whilst this independent living aid would not be advisory for all patients (such as those contending with dementia), if your patient is able to manage their own prescriptions and consultations, this can hugely increase their self-reliance, and give a feeling of control. This process can be made much easier by setting up phone reminder alerts both for consultations and to take prescription medication. You can also ask that physicians send email/text reminders for consultations.
3. INTRODUCE SMART DEVICES
Introducing smart devices is a wonderful way to raise independence in those with limited mobility, especially among seniors, who may be unfamiliar with them. Smart devices give even bed-bound patients a level of independence by giving both a connection with the outside world, and the ability to ask for help at the touch of a button. This in turn fosters a perception of security and lowers the need to have a carer present at all times, while also easing companionship.
4. DECLUTTER THE PROPERTY
Ensuring effortless movement between rooms is one of the best, and most straightforward, ways to promote independence in the house, both from an ease-of-use and safety perspective. Get rid of anything which could induce trips or falls, such as rugs and wires, and add additional lighting (and motion sensors) where necessary, to both inside and outside the house. For people with reduced sight, place brightly coloured tape to the edges of stairs for extra support.By making movement between rooms as smooth as possible you will not only increase the patient’s safety but also minimize the need for a carer to be present.
5. HAVE A MEDICAL ALERT SYSTEM IN PLACE
Having a trusted clinical alert system in place makes it easy for senior citizens to go on living autonomously, yet rest assured that if something was to happen, an alarm would immediately become triggered. Medical alert systems are therefore essential in ensuring that self-reliance doesn’t jeopardize safety. More Advice Beaucare
6. PLAN FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY
Fall systems should also be in place as a safety provision, and specialist smoke alarms installed, especially if your patient has hearing or visual challenges. Expert smoke alarms are wirelessly connected, meaning that if one is triggered, all are triggered, and some even include vibrating pads. Get in touch with your local fire and rescue company to discuss these specialist options further. If you need support installing home security and safety measures, you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson services.
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