Preserving independent living, whenever practical, not only increases feelings of self-confidence, control and dignity, but also eases day-to-day life by reducing reliance on others. That’s why the significance of promoting independence in those with movement and strength issues can not be overemphasised. Additionally, 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 practising the methods outlined, independent living could be possible to many. To see how we can help bath hoist
1. ONLY COUNT ON HELP WHERE NECESSARY
As a carer, the trick to sustaining productive independent living is by administering care only when it’s absolutely needed, as this will encourage self-sufficiency where the patient is capable.Look at the below list, and decide which areas your patient genuinely needs help with, and which they could actually manage themselves;- Prepping meals and shopping for food- Cleaning, and other basic household tasks- Organising bills and finances- Driving- Personal grooming, and bathingAltering care to only be provided where essential 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 help (family, care staff or doctors), and where assistance will be based (in-home, hospital or care-facility based).
2. IF PRACTICAL, HANDLE OWN PRESCRIPTION AND APPOINTMENTS
Whilst this independent living aid would not be advisory for all people (such as those contending with dementia), if your sufferer is able to manage their own prescriptions and appointments, this can hugely raise their self-sufficiency, and provide a feeling of control. This process can be made much easier by setting phone reminder alerts both for consultations and to take prescription medication. You can also seek that physicians send email/text reminders for consultations.
3. INTRODUCE SMART DEVICES
Introducing smart devices is a superb way to increase self-sufficiency in those with reduced mobility, especially among 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 perception of security and reduces the need to have a carer present at all times, while also easing companionship.
4. DECLUTTER THE HOME
Ensuring effortless movement in between rooms is one of the best, and most straightforward, ways to promote self-reliance in the home, both from an ease-of-use and safety point ofview. Remove 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 impaired 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 reduce the need for a carer to be present.
5. HAVE A MEDICAL ALERT SYSTEM IN PLACE
Having a trusted medical alert system in place helps elderly people to go on living autonomously, yet rest assured that if something was to happen, an alarm would automatically become triggered. Medical alert systems are therefore essential in guaranteeing that self-reliance doesn’t compromise safety. More Advice Visit Website
6. PLAN OF ACTION 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 challenges. Expert 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 go over 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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