Maintaining independent living, wherever possible, not only boosts feelings of self-esteem, control and self-respect, but also eases day-to-day life by reducing dependence on others. That’s why the significance of encouraging independence in those with movement and strength concerns can not be overemphasised. In addition, increased self-reliance creates a safer living surrounding, specifically in the elderly, as people are less likely to pose a threat to themselves when performing daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practicing the methods detailed, independent living could be attainable to many. To see how we can help Visit Website
1. ONLY DEPEND ON ASSISTANCE WHERE NEEDED
As a carer, the key to fostering successful independent living is by providing care only when it’s genuinely needed, as this will encourage self-sufficiency where the patient is able.Look at the below checklist, and choose which areas your patient genuinely needs help with, and which they could actually handle themselves;- Preparing meals and shopping for food- Cleaning, and other basic household tasks- Organising bills and finances- Driving- Personal grooming, and bathingAltering 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 assistance (family, care staff or physicians), and where assistance will be based (in-home, hospital or care-facility based).
2. IF POSSIBLE, HANDLE OWN PRESCRIPTION AND APPOINTMENTS
Whilst this independent living aid would not be advisory for all people (such as those battling dementia), if your patient is able to manage their own prescribed medications and appointments, this can massively boost their self-reliance, and provide a feeling of control. This process can be made simpler by setting up phone reminder alerts both for appointments and to take medication. You can also seek that medical professionals send email/text reminders for consultations.
3. INTRODUCE SMARTPHONES
Introducing smartphones is a superb way to raise self-sufficiency in those with limited mobility, especially among seniors, who may be unaccustomed with them. Smartphones give even bed-bound patients a level of self-reliance 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 sensation of security and reduces 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 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 individuals with reduced 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 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 helps seniors to go on living autonomously, yet rest assured that if something was to happen, an alarm would automatically become triggered. Medical alert systems are for that reason essential in ensuring that self-sufficiency doesn’t jeopardize 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, particularly 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 discuss these specialist options further. If you need assistance installing home security and safety measures, you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson solutions.
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