Managing independent living, whenever practical, not only enhances feelings of self-esteem, control and self-respect, but also eases day-to-day life by lowering dependence on others. That’s why the importance of encouraging independence in those with mobility and strength troubles can not be overemphasised. Furthermore, increased self-reliance creates a safer living environment, particularly in the elderly, as people are less likely to pose a risk to themselves when carrying out daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practising the methods detailed, independent living can be achievable to many. To see how we can help Beaucare Medical Equipment
1. ONLY RELY ON ASSISTANCE WHERE NECESSARY
As a carer, the secret to fostering productive independent living is by providing care only when it’s definitely needed, as this will promote self-sufficiency where the patient is able.Look at the below checklist, and decide which areas your patient definitely needs help with, and which they could really handle themselves;- Prepping meals and shopping for meals- Cleaning, and other standard home duties- Organising bills and finances- Driving- Personal grooming, and showeringAltering 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 support (family, care staff or doctors), and where assistance will be based (in-home, hospital or care-facility based).
2. IF PRACTICAL, MANAGE OWN PRESCRIPTION AND CONSULTATIONS
While this independent living aid would not be advisory for all people (such as those contending with dementia), if your sufferer is able to manage their own prescribed medications and consultations, this can hugely increase their self-sufficiency, and offer a feeling of control. This process can be made much easier by setting phone reminder alerts both for consultations and to take medication. You can also seek that doctors send email/text reminders for appointments.
3. INTRODUCE SMARTPHONES
Introducing smart devices is a fantastic way to increase self-sufficiency in those with limited mobility, especially amongst seniors, who may be unfamiliar with them. Smart devices give even bed-bound patients a level of self-reliance by providing both a connection with the outside world, and the ability to request help at the touch of a button. This in turn fosters a perception of security and reduces the need to have a carer present at all times, while also easing companionship.
4. DECLUTTER THE HOME
Providing simple and easy movement between rooms is one of the best, and most straightforward, ways to encourage independence in the house, both from an ease-of-use and safety perspective. Take out 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 in between rooms as seamless 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 PROCESS IN PLACE
Having a trusted clinical alert system in place allows elderly people to go on living autonomously, yet rest assured that if something was to happen, an alarm would immediately become triggered. Medical alert systems are for that reason vital in making sure that self-sufficiency doesn’t jeopardize safety. More Advice
6. PLAN OF ACTION FOR SAFETY
Fall systems should also be in place as a safety measure, and specialist smoke alarms installed, specifically if your patient has hearing or visual challenges. Expert smoke alarms are wirelessly connected, meaning that if one is activated, 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 services.
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