Managing independent living, whenever possible, not only boosts feelings of self-esteem, control and dignity, but also eases day-to-day life by decreasing dependence on others. That’s why the significance of encouraging self-reliance in those with mobility and strength troubles can not be overemphasised. Furthermore, increased self-reliance produces a safer living surrounding, particularly in the elderly, as people are less likely to pose a risk to themselves when undertaking daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practicing the methods detailed, independent living can be possible to many. To see how we can help Visit Website
1. ONLY COUNT ON HELP WHERE NEEDED
As a carer, the trick to fostering productive independent living is by administering care only when it’s absolutely needed, as this will promote independence 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;- Preparing meals and shopping for meals- Cleaning, and other general household jobs- Organising bills and money- Driving- Personal grooming, and showeringAltering 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 help (family, care staff or physicians), and where assistance will be based (in-home, hospital or care-facility based).
2. IF POSSIBLE, MANAGE OWN MEDICATION AND CONSULTATIONS
While this independent living aid would not be advisory for all individuals (such as those battling dementia), if your patient is able to manage their own prescriptions and consultations, this can massively increase their independence, and provide a feeling of control. This process can be made simpler by setting up phone reminder alerts both for appointments and to take medication. You can also seek that doctors send email/text reminders for appointments.
3. INTRODUCE SMART DEVICES
Introducing smartphones is a fantastic way to raise independence in those with limited mobility, especially amongst seniors, who may be unaccustomed with them. Smartphones give even bed-bound patients a level of self-reliance by providing 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, while 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 home, both from an ease-of-use and safety standpoint. Take away 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 individuals with impaired sight, place vibrantly coloured tape to the edges of stairs for extra support.By making movement between rooms as smooth as possible you will not only increase the patient’s safety but also minimize the need for a carer to be present.
5. HAVE A MEDICAL ALERT SYSTEM IN PLACE
Having a trusted medical alert system in place makes it easy for elderly people to continue living autonomously, yet rest assured that if anything was to happen, an alarm would automatically become triggered. Medical alert systems are for that reason essential 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 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 include vibrating pads. Get in touch with your local fire and rescue service to talk about these specialist options further. If you need support setting up home security and safety measures, you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson solutions.
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