Preserving independent living, whenever feasible, not only raises feelings of self-confidence, control and self-respect, but also eases day-to-day life by decreasing reliance on others. That’s why the value of encouraging independence in those with movement and strength issues can not be overemphasised. Additionally, increased independence creates a safer living surrounding, specifically in the elderly, as people are less likely to pose a risk to themselves when undertaking daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practicing the methods detailed, independent living could be achievable to many. To see how we can help Medical Equipment
1. ONLY RELY ON HELP WHERE REQUIRED
As a carer, the trick to sustaining productive independent living is by administering care only when it’s really needed, as this will promote self-reliance where the patient is able.Look at the below checklist, and choose which areas your patient really needs help with, and which they could actually handle themselves;- Preparing meals and shopping for meals- Cleaning, and other standard home jobs- 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 help (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 APPOINTMENTS
Whilst this independent living aid would not be advisory for all individuals (such as those fighting dementia), if your sufferer is able to manage their own prescribed medications and consultations, this can massively raise their self-reliance, and give a feeling of control. This process can be made much easier by setting phone reminder alerts both for appointments and to take medication. You can also ask that doctors send email/text reminders for consultations.
3. INTRODUCE SMART DEVICES
Introducing smartphones is a great way to raise self-reliance in those with reduced 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, whilst also easing companionship.
4. DECLUTTER THE PROPERTY
Ensuring simple and easy movement between rooms is one of the best, and most simple, ways to promote independence in the home, both from an ease-of-use and safety standpoint. Take away anything which could cause trips or falls, such as mats 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 between rooms as seamless as possible you will not only boost the patient’s safety but also minimize the need for a carer to be present.
5. HAVE A CLINICAL ALERT PROCESS IN PLACE
Having a trusted medical alert system in place enables senior citizens to carry on living autonomously, yet rest assured that if anything was to happen, an alarm would immediately become activated. Medical alert systems are for that reason crucial in ensuring that self-reliance doesn’t compromise safety. More Advice Beaucare
6. PLAN OF ACTION FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY
Fall systems should also be in place as a safety measure, 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 triggered, all are triggered, and some even feature vibrating pads. Get in touch with your local fire and rescue service to discuss these specialist options further. If you need help putting in home security and safety measures, you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson solutions.
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