Maintaining independent living, where ever feasible, not only enhances feelings of self-esteem, control and self-respect, but also eases day-to-day life by lowering reliance on others. That’s why the importance of promoting self-reliance in those with movement and strength issues can not be overemphasised. In addition, increased independence creates a safer living surrounding, especially in the elderly, as individuals are less likely to pose a risk to themselves when performing daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practicing the methods described, independent living could be attainable to many. To see how we can help Beaucare Hoists & Slings
1. ONLY DEPEND ON ASSISTANCE WHERE ESSENTIAL
As a carer, the key to fostering successful independent living is by providing care only when it’s really needed, as this will promote self-reliance where the patient is capable.Look at the below list, and choose which areas your patient definitely needs help with, and which they could actually manage themselves;- Preparing meals and shopping for food items- Cleaning, and other standard household tasks- Organising bills and finances- Driving- Personal grooming, and bathingAltering 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 assistance, 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 FEASIBLE, MANAGE OWN PRESCRIPTION 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 increase their self-reliance, 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 prescription medication. You can also seek that physicians send email/text reminders for appointments.
3. INTRODUCE SMARTPHONES
Introducing smartphones is a wonderful way to raise self-sufficiency in those with limited mobility, especially among seniors, who may be unfamiliar with them. Smart devices grant 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, whilst also easing companionship.
4. DECLUTTER THE PROPERTY
Ensuring simple and easy movement in between rooms is one of the best, and most simple, ways to promote self-reliance in the house, both from an ease-of-use and safety perspective. Get rid of 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 brightly coloured tape to the edges of stairs for additional support.By making movement between rooms as seamless as possible you will not only boost the patient’s safety but also minimize the need for a carer to be present.
5. HAVE A MEDICAL ALERT PROCESS IN PLACE
Having a trusted clinical alert system in place enables senior citizens to go on living autonomously, yet rest assured that if something was to happen, an alarm would immediately become triggered. Medical alert systems are therefore crucial in making sure that independence doesn’t compromise safety. More Advice Beaucare Hoists & Slings
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 difficulties. Professional smoke alarms are wirelessly connected, meaning that if one is activated, all are triggered, and some even include vibrating pads. Get in touch with your local fire and rescue company to discuss these specialist options further. If you need support installing home security and safety measures, you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson solutions.
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