Preserving independent living, whenever possible, not only boosts feelings of confidence, control and self-worth, but also eases day-to-day life by decreasing dependence on others. That’s why the importance of promoting self-reliance in those with mobility and strength troubles can not be overemphasised. Furthermore, increased independence creates a safer living surrounding, especially in the elderly, as people are less likely to pose a risk 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 Medical Equipment
1. ONLY DEPEND ON HELP WHERE NEEDED
As a carer, the secret to fostering productive independent living is by administering care only when it’s genuinely needed, as this will promote independence where the patient is capable.Look at the below checklist, and choose which areas your patient definitely needs help with, and which they could actually manage themselves;- Prepping meals and shopping for food- Cleaning, and other standard household duties- Organising bills and finances- Driving- Personal grooming, and bathingAltering 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 help (family, care staff or physicians), and where assistance will be based (in-home, hospital or care-facility based).
2. IF POSSIBLE, MANAGE OWN MEDICATION AND CONSULTATIONS
While 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 independence, and offer a feeling of control. This process can be made simpler by setting up phone reminder alerts both for appointments and to take prescription medication. You can also ask that doctors send email/text reminders for consultations.
3. INTRODUCE SMARTPHONES
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. Smart devices provide even bed-bound patients a level of self-reliance 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 PROPERTY
Ensuring effortless movement 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. Get rid of anything which could induce 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 impaired sight, place vibrantly coloured tape to the edges of stairs for additional support.By making movement in between rooms as smooth as possible you will not only increase the patient’s safety but also reduce 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 seniors to continue living autonomously, yet rest assured that if something was to happen, an alarm would immediately become activated. Medical alert systems are therefore vital in ensuring that self-reliance doesn’t compromise safety. More Advice Beaucare
6. PLAN OF ACTION FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY
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 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 assistance installing home security and safety measures, you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson services.
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