Managing independent living, whenever practical, not only boosts feelings of self-esteem, control and dignity, but also eases day-to-day life by lowering dependence on others. That’s why the value of encouraging independence in those with movement and strength problems can not be overemphasised. Additionally, increased self-reliance produces a safer living surrounding, particularly in the elderly, as individuals are less likely to pose a threat to themselves when performing daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practising the methods outlined, independent living can be achievable to many. To see how we can help Beaucare
1. ONLY RELY ON ASSISTANCE WHERE NEEDED
As a carer, the key to sustaining productive independent living is by providing care only when it’s absolutely needed, as this will promote self-sufficiency where the patient is capable.Look at the below checklist, and choose which areas your patient really needs help with, and which they could actually handle themselves;- Prepping meals and shopping for food- Cleaning, and other standard house tasks- Organising bills and money- 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 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 FEASIBLE, HANDLE OWN PRESCRIPTION AND CONSULTATIONS
Whilst this independent living aid would not be advisory for all people (such as those fighting dementia), if your patient is able to manage their own prescriptions and consultations, this can hugely boost their independence, and offer 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 ask that doctors send email/text reminders for appointments.
3. INTRODUCE SMART DEVICES
Introducing smart devices is a fantastic way to raise self-sufficiency in those with limited mobility, especially amongst seniors, who may be unaccustomed with them. Smartphones provide even bed-bound patients a level of self-reliance by giving 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
Ensuring simple and easy movement 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 induce trips or falls, such as mats and wires, and add extra 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 in between rooms as seamless as possible you will not only increase the patient’s safety but also minimize the need for a carer to be present.
5. HAVE A CLINICAL ALERT PROCESS IN PLACE
Having a trusted medical alert system in place helps elderly people to carry on living autonomously, yet rest assured that if something was to happen, an alarm would automatically become activated. Medical alert systems are for that reason vital in guaranteeing that self-sufficiency doesn’t compromise safety. More Advice Beaucare Medical Equipment
6. PLAN FOR SAFETY
Fall systems should also be in place as a safety measure, and specialist smoke alarms installed, particularly if your patient has hearing or visual challenges. Expert smoke alarms are wirelessly connected, meaning that if one is set off, 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 installing home security and safety measures, you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson services.
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