Preserving independent living, where ever practical, not only raises feelings of self-confidence, control and self-worth, but also eases day-to-day life by lowering reliance on others. That’s why the value of promoting independence in those with mobility and strength problems can not be overemphasised. In addition, increased self-reliance creates a safer living environment, particularly in the elderly, as individuals are less likely to pose a risk to themselves when performing daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practising the methods described, independent living could be possible to many. To see how we can help https://www.beaucare.com/
1. ONLY RELY ON HELP WHERE REQUIRED
As a carer, the trick to sustaining productive independent living is by administering care only when it’s definitely needed, as this will encourage self-reliance where the patient is capable.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 food- Cleaning, and other standard household duties- Organising bills and money- Driving- Personal grooming, and washingAltering 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 doctors), and where assistance will be based (in-home, hospital or care-facility based).
2. IF PRACTICAL, MANAGE OWN PRESCRIPTION AND CONSULTATIONS
Whilst this independent living aid would not be advisory for all patients (such as those contending with dementia), if your sufferer is able to manage their own prescriptions and appointments, this can hugely boost their self-sufficiency, and offer a feeling of control. This process can be made simpler by setting up phone reminder alerts both for appointments and to take prescription medication. You can also request that doctors send email/text reminders for consultations.
3. INTRODUCE SMART DEVICES
Introducing smart devices is a great way to raise self-reliance in those with limited mobility, especially amongst seniors, who may be unaccustomed with them. Smartphones grant even bed-bound patients a level of self-reliance by providing 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 perception of security and reduces the need to have a carer present at all times, while also easing companionship.
4. DECLUTTER THE HOME
Ensuring effortless movement in between rooms is one of the best, and most simple, ways to encourage self-sufficiency in the house, both from an ease-of-use and safety standpoint. Remove anything which could induce 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 brightly coloured tape to the edges of stairs for extra support.By making movement in between rooms as seamless as possible you will not only boost the patient’s safety but also decrease the need for a carer to be present.
5. HAVE A CLINICAL ALERT PROCESS IN PLACE
Having a trusted medical alert system in place allows seniors 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 crucial in ensuring that self-sufficiency doesn’t jeopardize safety. More Advice
6. PLAN OF ACTION FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY
Fall systems should also be in place as a safety measure, and specialist smoke alarms installed, specifically if your patient has hearing or visual problems. Specialist 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 service to go over these specialist options further. If you need help putting in home security and safety measures, you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson solutions.
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