Preserving independent living, where ever practical, not only enhances feelings of confidence, control and self-worth, but also eases day-to-day life by reducing reliance on others. That’s why the importance of promoting independence in those with mobility and strength issues can not be overemphasised. Furthermore, increased independence produces a safer living environment, especially in the elderly, as individuals are less likely to pose a danger to themselves when performing daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practising the methods outlined, 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 trick to sustaining successful independent living is by administering care only when it’s really needed, as this will promote self-reliance where the patient is capable.Look at the below checklist, and choose which areas your patient really needs help with, and which they could actually manage themselves;- Prepping meals and shopping for meals- Cleaning, and other general household jobs- Organising bills and money- 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 assistance, 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 MEDICATION AND APPOINTMENTS
While this independent living aid would not be advisory for all people (such as those fighting dementia), if your sufferer is able to manage their own prescribed medications and consultations, this can hugely boost their self-reliance, and offer 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 physicians send email/text reminders for consultations.
3. INTRODUCE SMARTPHONES
Introducing smart devices is a superb way to increase self-reliance in those with reduced mobility, especially amongst seniors, who may be unfamiliar with them. Smart devices grant even bed-bound patients a level of independence by offering both a connection with the outside world, and the ability to request help at the touch of a button. This in turn fosters a feeling of security and reduces the need to have a carer present at all times, whilst also easing companionship.
4. DECLUTTER THE PROPERTY
Ensuring effortless movement between rooms is one of the best, and most simple, ways to encourage self-reliance in the house, both from an ease-of-use and safety point ofview. Remove anything which could cause 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 damaged 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 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 enables elderly people to carry 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-reliance doesn’t compromise safety. More Advice Visit Website
6. PLAN OF ACTION FOR SAFETY
Fall systems should also be in place as a safety provision, and specialist smoke alarms installed, especially if your patient has hearing or visual difficulties. Professional 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 go over these specialist options further. If you need assistance installing home security and safety measures, you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson services.
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