Maintaining independent living, whenever possible, not only increases feelings of self-esteem, control and self-worth, but also eases day-to-day life by decreasing dependence on others. That’s why the value of encouraging independence in those with movement and strength issues can not be overemphasised. Additionally, increased independence produces a safer living surrounding, especially in the elderly, as people are less likely to pose a risk to themselves when performing daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practicing the methods described, independent living could be possible to many. To see how we can help Beaucare
1. ONLY RELY ON ASSISTANCE WHERE ESSENTIAL
As a carer, the key to sustaining successful independent living is by administering care only when it’s really needed, as this will promote independence where the patient is capable.Look at the below list, and decide which areas your patient really needs help with, and which they could really take care of themselves;- Prepping meals and shopping for food items- Cleaning, and other standard house jobs- Organising bills and money- Driving- Personal grooming, and washingAltering care to only be provided where essential 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 physicians), and where assistance will be based (in-home, hospital or care-facility based).
2. IF POSSIBLE, HANDLE OWN MEDICATION AND CONSULTATIONS
While this independent living aid would not be advisory for all patients (such as those contending with dementia), if your sufferer is able to manage their own prescribed medications and consultations, this can hugely boost their independence, and give a feeling of control. This process can be made simpler by setting phone reminder alerts both for consultations and to take medication. You can also request that medical professionals send email/text reminders for consultations.
3. INTRODUCE SMARTPHONES
Introducing smart devices is a great way to raise independence in those with reduced mobility, especially among seniors, who may be unfamiliar with them. Smartphones provide even bed-bound patients a level of independence by offering 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 feeling of security and decreases the need to have a carer present at all times, whilst also easing companionship.
4. DECLUTTER THE PROPERTY
Providing effortless movement in between rooms is one of the best, and most straightforward, ways to encourage independence in the home, both from an ease-of-use and safety point ofview. Remove anything which could cause trips or falls, such as rugs and wires, and add extra lighting (and motion sensors) where necessary, to both inside and outside the house. For people with damaged sight, place vibrantly coloured tape to the edges of stairs for extra support.By making movement in 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 CLINICAL ALERT SYSTEM IN PLACE
Having a trusted clinical alert system in place allows elderly people to continue living autonomously, yet rest assured that if something was to happen, an alarm would automatically become triggered. Medical alert systems are therefore vital in ensuring that independence doesn’t jeopardize safety. More Advice Beaucare
6. PLAN OF ACTION 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 problems. Specialist smoke alarms are wirelessly connected, meaning that if one is set off, all are triggered, and some even include vibrating pads. Get in touch with your local fire and rescue company to talk about these specialist options further. If you need assistance setting up home security and safety measures, you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson services.
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