Maintaining independent living, whenever practical, not only increases feelings of self-esteem, control and dignity, but also eases day-to-day life by lowering reliance on others. That’s why the significance of encouraging self-reliance in those with movement and strength troubles can not be overemphasised. Additionally, increased self-reliance produces a safer living surrounding, especially in the elderly, as individuals are less likely to pose a risk to themselves when undertaking daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practicing the methods outlined, independent living could be achievable to many. To see how we can help Visit Website
1. ONLY COUNT ON HELP WHERE NEEDED
As a carer, the secret to fostering productive independent living is by administering care only when it’s definitely needed, as this will promote self-sufficiency where the patient is able.Look at the below checklist, and decide which areas your patient absolutely needs help with, and which they could actually take care of themselves;- Preparing meals and shopping for food- Cleaning, and other standard household duties- Organising bills and finances- Driving- Personal grooming, and washingAltering 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 support, who will be providing support (family, care staff or doctors), and where assistance will be based (in-home, hospital or care-facility based).
2. IF PRACTICAL, MANAGE OWN MEDICATION AND APPOINTMENTS
Whilst this independent living aid would not be advisory for all patients (such as those fighting dementia), if your sufferer is able to manage their own prescribed medications and appointments, this can hugely raise their self-reliance, and provide a feeling of control. This process can be made simpler by setting phone reminder alerts both for appointments and to take medication. You can also seek that physicians send email/text reminders for appointments.
3. INTRODUCE SMART DEVICES
Introducing smartphones is a fantastic way to increase self-sufficiency in those with limited mobility, especially amongst seniors, who may be unaccustomed with them. Smartphones give even bed-bound patients a level of independence 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 sensation of security and decreases the need to have a carer present at all times, while also easing companionship.
4. DECLUTTER THE HOME
Ensuring simple and easy movement in between rooms is one of the best, and most straightforward, ways to encourage self-reliance in the house, both from an ease-of-use and safety perspective. Take out anything which could cause trips or falls, such as mats and wires, and add additional 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 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 MEDICAL ALERT PROCESS IN PLACE
Having a trusted clinical alert system in place makes it easy for elderly people 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 making sure that self-reliance doesn’t compromise safety. More Advice Beaucare Hoists & Slings
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 problems. 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 company 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 services.
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