Preserving independent living, where ever practical, not only raises feelings of confidence, control and dignity, but also eases day-to-day life by reducing dependence on others. That’s why the value of promoting self-reliance in those with movement and strength concerns can not be overemphasised. In addition, increased self-reliance produces a safer living environment, especially in the elderly, as individuals are less likely to pose a danger to themselves when undertaking daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practising the methods detailed, independent living could be attainable to many. To see how we can help Medical Equipment
1. ONLY RELY ON ASSISTANCE WHERE REQUIRED
As a carer, the trick to fostering successful independent living is by providing care only when it’s absolutely needed, as this will promote self-sufficiency where the patient is able.Look at the below list, and choose which areas your patient genuinely needs help with, and which they could actually manage themselves;- Preparing meals and shopping for food- Cleaning, and other basic home jobs- Organising bills and money- Driving- Personal grooming, and showeringAltering care to only be provided where essential is a key independent living aid, and will have a knock-on effect concerning the amount of visits the patient receives from those providing support, 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 PRACTICAL, MANAGE OWN MEDICATION 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 prescribed medications and consultations, this can hugely increase their self-sufficiency, and give a feeling of control. This process can be made much easier 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 appointments.
3. INTRODUCE SMART DEVICES
Introducing smartphones is a wonderful way to increase self-reliance in those with limited mobility, especially among 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 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, whilst also easing companionship.
4. DECLUTTER THE HOME
Providing simple and easy movement in 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 out 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 damaged sight, place vibrantly coloured tape to the edges of stairs for extra support.By making movement between rooms as seamless as possible you will not only increase the patient’s safety but also decrease the need for a carer to be present.
5. HAVE A MEDICAL ALERT SYSTEM IN PLACE
Having a trusted clinical alert system in place makes it easy for seniors to carry on living autonomously, yet rest assured that if anything was to happen, an alarm would immediately become activated. Medical alert systems are for that reason vital in ensuring that independence doesn’t compromise safety. More Advice Beaucare
6. PLAN FOR SAFETY
Fall systems should also be in place as a safety precaution, and specialist smoke alarms installed, especially 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 feature vibrating pads. Get in touch with your local fire and rescue service 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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