Preserving independent living, whenever practical, not only boosts feelings of confidence, control and dignity, but also eases day-to-day life by lowering dependence on others. That’s why the importance of encouraging self-reliance in those with mobility and strength problems 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 threat to themselves when performing daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practicing the methods detailed, independent living can be attainable to many. To see how we can help https://www.beaucare.com/
1. ONLY COUNT ON HELP WHERE NECESSARY
As a carer, the secret to fostering productive independent living is by providing care only when it’s absolutely needed, as this will promote independence where the patient is able.Look at the below checklist, and decide which areas your patient definitely needs help with, and which they could actually take care of themselves;- Prepping meals and shopping for food- Cleaning, and other basic house duties- Organising bills and finances- Driving- Personal grooming, and washingAltering care to only be provided where needed 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 FEASIBLE, MANAGE 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 prescriptions and appointments, this can massively boost their self-reliance, and offer a feeling of control. This process can be made easier by setting phone reminder alerts both for appointments and to take medication. You can also ask that doctors send email/text reminders for appointments.
3. INTRODUCE SMARTPHONES
Introducing smartphones is an excellent way to raise self-sufficiency in those with limited mobility, especially amongst seniors, who may be unaccustomed with them. Smartphones grant 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 perception of security and decreases the need to have a carer present at all times, whilst 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 self-sufficiency in the home, both from an ease-of-use and safety point ofview. Take away anything which could induce trips or falls, such as mats and wires, and add additional lighting (and motion sensors) where necessary, to both inside and outside the house. For individuals with reduced sight, place brightly coloured tape to the edges of stairs for additional support.By making movement between rooms as smooth 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 MEDICAL ALERT PROCESS IN PLACE
Having a trusted clinical alert system in place helps senior citizens to go on living autonomously, yet rest assured that if something was to happen, an alarm would automatically become triggered. Medical alert systems are therefore vital in guaranteeing that self-sufficiency doesn’t compromise safety. More Advice bath hoist
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. Professional 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 company to go over these specialist options further. If you need help setting up home security and safety measures, you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson services.
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