Maintaining independent living, where ever practical, not only boosts feelings of self-confidence, control and dignity, but also eases day-to-day life by reducing dependence on others. That’s why the importance of encouraging self-reliance in those with movement and strength troubles can not be overemphasised. Furthermore, increased independence produces a safer living environment, especially in the elderly, as individuals 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 can be achievable to many. To see how we can help Visit Website
1. ONLY DEPEND ON ASSISTANCE WHERE ESSENTIAL
As a carer, the trick to sustaining successful independent living is by administering care only when it’s genuinely needed, as this will promote self-reliance where the patient is able.Look at the below checklist, and decide which areas your patient truly needs help with, and which they could actually manage themselves;- Preparing meals and shopping for meals- Cleaning, and other basic home chores- Organising bills and finances- Driving- Personal grooming, and showeringAltering 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 help, 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 POSSIBLE, HANDLE OWN PRESCRIPTION AND CONSULTATIONS
While 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 prescribed medications and consultations, this can massively boost their self-sufficiency, and give a feeling of control. This process can be made simpler by setting up phone reminder alerts both for consultations and to take medication. You can also ask that doctors send email/text reminders for appointments.
3. INTRODUCE SMARTPHONES
Introducing smart devices is a great way to increase self-reliance in those with reduced mobility, especially amongst seniors, who may be unaccustomed 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 request help at the touch of a button. This in turn fosters a sensation of security and decreases the need to have a carer present at all times, while also easing companionship.
4. DECLUTTER THE HOME
Ensuring simple and easy movement in between rooms is one of the best, and most simple, ways to encourage self-reliance in the home, both from an ease-of-use and safety standpoint. Take out 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 brightly coloured tape to the edges of stairs for extra support.By making movement in between rooms as smooth as possible you will not only boost the patient’s safety but also reduce 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 senior citizens to continue living autonomously, yet rest assured that if something was to happen, an alarm would immediately become triggered. Medical alert systems are therefore crucial in making sure that independence doesn’t compromise safety. More Advice Beaucare Medical Equipment
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. Professional 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 assistance setting up home security and safety measures, you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson solutions.
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