Managing independent living,where ever possible,not only enhances feelings of confidence,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 creates a safer living environment,specifically in the elderly,as individuals are less likely to pose a risk to themselves when undertaking daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practicing the methods detailed,independent living could be attainable to many. To see how we can help Beaucare
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1. ONLY COUNT ON ASSISTANCE WHERE ESSENTIAL
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As a carer,the secret to sustaining productive independent living is by providing care only when it’s definitely needed,as this will promote independence where the patient is able.Look at the below checklist,and decide which areas your patient absolutely needs help with,and which they could really manage themselves;- Prepping meals and shopping for meals- Cleaning,and other standard house chores- Organising bills and money- Driving- Personal grooming,and showeringAltering 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).
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2. IF POSSIBLE,HANDLE OWN MEDICATION AND CONSULTATIONS
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Whilst this independent living aid would not be advisory for all patients (such as those fighting dementia),if your patient is able to manage their own prescribed medications and consultations,this can massively boost their self-reliance,and provide a feeling of control. This process can be made much easier by setting up phone reminder alerts both for consultations and to take prescription medication. You can also request that medical professionals send email/text reminders for consultations.
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3. INTRODUCE SMART DEVICES
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Introducing smartphones is a superb way to raise independence in those with limited mobility,especially among seniors,who may be unaccustomed with them. Smart devices grant even bed-bound patients a level of self-reliance by giving 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 sensation of security and lowers the need to have a carer present at all times,while also easing companionship.
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4. DECLUTTER THE HOME
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Ensuring simple and easy movement in between rooms is one of the best,and most simple,ways to promote independence in the home,both from an ease-of-use and safety standpoint. Take away 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 individuals with impaired sight,place brightly coloured tape to the edges of stairs for extra support.By making movement between rooms as smooth as possible you will not only boost the patient’s safety but also minimize the need for a carer to be present.
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5. HAVE A MEDICAL ALERT PROCESS IN PLACE
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Having a trusted clinical alert system in place allows seniors to go on living autonomously,yet rest assured that if anything was to happen,an alarm would immediately become triggered. Medical alert systems are for that reason essential in ensuring that self-reliance doesn’t compromise safety. More Advice Beaucare Medical Equipment
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6. PLAN OF ACTION FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY
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Fall systems should also be in place as a safety measure,and specialist smoke alarms installed,especially if your patient has hearing or visual problems. Expert 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 talk about these specialist options further. If you need help putting in home security and safety measures,you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson services.
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