Managing independent living, whenever practical, not only raises feelings of self-esteem, control and self-respect, but also eases day-to-day life by lowering reliance on others. That’s why the value of encouraging self-reliance in those with movement and strength problems can not be overemphasised. Furthermore, increased independence creates a safer living surrounding, specifically in the elderly, as individuals are less likely to pose a threat to themselves when undertaking daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practising the methods detailed, independent living could be achievable to many. To see how we can help Visit Website
1. ONLY DEPEND ON ASSISTANCE WHERE ESSENTIAL
As a carer, the trick to sustaining productive independent living is by administering care only when it’s really needed, as this will encourage self-reliance where the patient is capable.Look at the below checklist, and choose which areas your patient definitely needs help with, and which they could actually handle themselves;- Preparing meals and shopping for meals- Cleaning, and other basic home duties- Organising bills and money- Driving- Personal grooming, and showeringAltering 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 assistance, who will be providing support (family, care staff or physicians), and where assistance will be based (in-home, hospital or care-facility based).
2. IF FEASIBLE, MANAGE OWN MEDICATION AND APPOINTMENTS
While this independent living aid would not be advisory for all individuals (such as those fighting dementia), if your patient is able to manage their own prescriptions and appointments, this can massively raise their self-sufficiency, and give a feeling of control. This process can be made simpler by setting phone reminder alerts both for consultations and to take prescription medication. You can also seek that medical professionals send email/text reminders for consultations.
3. INTRODUCE SMARTPHONES
Introducing smart devices is a superb way to increase independence in those with limited mobility, especially amongst seniors, who may be unfamiliar with them. Smartphones provide even bed-bound patients a level of self-reliance 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 sensation of security and reduces the need to have a carer present at all times, whilst also easing companionship.
4. DECLUTTER THE PROPERTY
Ensuring simple and easy movement between rooms is one of the best, and most straightforward, ways to encourage self-sufficiency in the house, both from an ease-of-use and safety perspective. Take out anything which could cause trips or falls, such as rugs and wires, and add extra lighting (and motion sensors) where necessary, to both inside and outside the house. For people with reduced sight, place vibrantly coloured tape to the edges of stairs for additional support.By making movement between rooms as smooth 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 MEDICAL ALERT PROCESS IN PLACE
Having a trusted medical alert system in place helps seniors to go on living autonomously, yet rest assured that if anything was to happen, an alarm would immediately become activated. Medical alert systems are therefore vital in guaranteeing that self-sufficiency doesn’t compromise safety. More Advice Beaucare Medical Equipment
6. PLAN FOR SAFETY
Fall systems should also be in place as a safety provision, and specialist smoke alarms installed, particularly if your patient has hearing or visual difficulties. Professional smoke alarms are wirelessly connected, meaning that if one is activated, 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 help setting up home security and safety measures, you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson solutions.
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