Maintaining independent living, where ever feasible, not only increases feelings of self-esteem, control and self-worth, but also eases day-to-day life by reducing dependence on others. That’s why the importance of promoting independence in those with movement and strength problems can not be overemphasised. Additionally, increased independence creates a safer living environment, especially in the elderly, as individuals are less likely to pose a danger to themselves when undertaking daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practicing the methods outlined, independent living could be attainable to many. To see how we can help Beaucare
1. ONLY RELY ON ASSISTANCE WHERE NEEDED
As a carer, the secret to sustaining successful independent living is by administering care only when it’s definitely needed, as this will promote self-reliance where the patient is capable.Look at the below checklist, and choose which areas your patient truly needs help with, and which they could really take care of themselves;- Prepping meals and shopping for meals- Cleaning, and other basic household duties- Organising bills and money- Driving- Personal grooming, and washingAltering care to only be provided where needed 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 support (family, care staff or physicians), and where assistance will be based (in-home, hospital or care-facility based).
2. IF PRACTICAL, MANAGE OWN MEDICATION AND CONSULTATIONS
Whilst this independent living aid would not be advisory for all individuals (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 offer a feeling of control. This process can be made much easier by setting phone reminder alerts both for appointments and to take prescription medication. You can also ask that physicians send email/text reminders for appointments.
3. INTRODUCE SMART DEVICES
Introducing smartphones is a superb way to raise self-sufficiency in those with limited mobility, especially amongst seniors, who may be unfamiliar with them. Smartphones provide 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 decreases the need to have a carer present at all times, while also easing companionship.
4. DECLUTTER THE HOME
Providing effortless movement in between rooms is one of the best, and most straightforward, ways to promote self-reliance in the house, both from an ease-of-use and safety standpoint. 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 people with damaged sight, place vibrantly coloured tape to the edges of stairs for additional support.By making movement between rooms as smooth 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 clinical alert system in place helps elderly people to go on living autonomously, yet rest assured that if anything was to happen, an alarm would immediately become triggered. Medical alert systems are therefore essential in ensuring that independence doesn’t jeopardize safety. More Advice Medical Equipment
6. PLAN FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY
Fall systems should also be in place as a safety precaution, 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 include vibrating pads. Get in touch with your local fire and rescue service to discuss these specialist options further. If you need assistance putting in home security and safety measures, you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson solutions.
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