Maintaining independent living, whenever practical, not only enhances feelings of confidence, control and dignity, but also eases day-to-day life by decreasing reliance on others. That’s why the significance of encouraging self-reliance in those with mobility and strength issues can not be overemphasised. Additionally, increased independence creates a safer living surrounding, especially in the elderly, as people are less likely to pose a danger to themselves when carrying out daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practising the methods outlined, independent living can be attainable to many. To see how we can help Medical Equipment
1. ONLY COUNT ON HELP WHERE NECESSARY
As a carer, the trick to fostering productive independent living is by providing care only when it’s really needed, as this will promote independence where the patient is able.Look at the below list, and choose which areas your patient definitely needs help with, and which they could really handle themselves;- Prepping meals and shopping for food items- Cleaning, and other general home jobs- Organising bills and finances- Driving- Personal grooming, and showeringAltering care to only be provided where required 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 PRACTICAL, MANAGE OWN PRESCRIPTION AND CONSULTATIONS
Whilst this independent living aid would not be advisory for all patients (such as those battling dementia), if your sufferer is able to manage their own prescribed medications and consultations, this can massively boost their self-reliance, and give a feeling of control. This process can be made much easier by setting up 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 SMART DEVICES
Introducing smartphones is a great way to increase self-reliance in those with limited mobility, especially among seniors, who may be unaccustomed with them. Smartphones give even bed-bound patients a level of self-reliance 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 lowers the need to have a carer present at all times, whilst also easing companionship.
4. DECLUTTER THE HOUSE
Ensuring effortless movement 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 point ofview. Take away anything which could induce 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 reduced sight, place vibrantly 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 reduce the need for a carer to be present.
5. HAVE A MEDICAL ALERT PROCESS IN PLACE
Having a trusted clinical alert system in place makes it possible for senior citizens to carry on living autonomously, yet rest assured that if something was to happen, an alarm would immediately become activated. Medical alert systems are therefore essential in ensuring that independence doesn’t jeopardize safety. More Advice Beaucare Hoists & Slings
6. PLAN OF ACTION FOR SAFETY
Fall systems should also be in place as a safety measure, and specialist smoke alarms installed, especially if your patient has hearing or visual difficulties. Specialist 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 talk about these specialist options further. If you need support putting in home security and safety measures, you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson solutions.
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