Preserving independent living, where ever practical, not only boosts feelings of self-confidence, control and self-worth, but also eases day-to-day life by reducing reliance on others. That’s why the importance of encouraging self-reliance in those with movement and strength issues can not be overemphasised. In addition, increased self-reliance produces a safer living surrounding, particularly in the elderly, as people are less likely to pose a risk to themselves when carrying out daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practicing the methods detailed, independent living could be possible to many. To see how we can help Beaucare
1. ONLY RELY ON ASSISTANCE WHERE REQUIRED
As a carer, the key to fostering productive independent living is by administering care only when it’s truly needed, as this will promote self-reliance where the patient is capable.Look at the below list, and choose which areas your patient absolutely needs help with, and which they could really take care of themselves;- Prepping meals and shopping for meals- Cleaning, and other standard household duties- Organising bills and finances- Driving- Personal grooming, and washingAltering 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 help, who will be providing help (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
While this independent living aid would not be advisory for all individuals (such as those battling dementia), if your sufferer is able to manage their own prescriptions and consultations, this can hugely boost 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 ask that medical professionals send email/text reminders for consultations.
3. INTRODUCE SMART DEVICES
Introducing smart devices is a fantastic way to increase independence in those with limited mobility, especially amongst seniors, who may be unfamiliar with them. Smartphones give even bed-bound patients a level of independence by providing both a connection with the outside world, and the ability to ask for help at the touch of a button. This in turn fosters a feeling 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 between rooms is one of the best, and most simple, ways to promote self-sufficiency in the house, both from an ease-of-use and safety standpoint. Take out anything which could cause trips or falls, such as rugs and wires, and add additional lighting (and motion sensors) where necessary, to both inside and outside the house. For people with reduced sight, place vibrantly coloured tape to the edges of stairs for additional support.By making movement in 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 CLINICAL ALERT SYSTEM IN PLACE
Having a trusted clinical alert system in place makes it easy for senior citizens to carry on living autonomously, yet rest assured that if anything was to happen, an alarm would automatically become triggered. Medical alert systems are for that reason crucial in making sure that self-sufficiency doesn’t compromise safety. More Advice Contact Us
6. PLAN FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY
Fall systems should also be in place as a safety precaution, and specialist smoke alarms installed, specifically if your patient has hearing or visual difficulties. Expert smoke alarms are wirelessly connected, meaning that if one is set off, all are triggered, and some even include vibrating pads. Get in touch with your local fire and rescue company to go over these specialist options further. If you need assistance installing home security and safety measures, you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson solutions.
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