Managing independent living, whenever possible, not only raises feelings of self-confidence, control and self-worth, but also eases day-to-day life by decreasing reliance on others. That’s why the importance of encouraging independence in those with movement and strength concerns can not be overemphasised. In addition, increased independence produces a safer living surrounding, especially in the elderly, as people are less likely to pose a danger to themselves when undertaking daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practising the methods outlined, independent living could be achievable to many. To see how we can help Beaucare Medical Equipment
1. ONLY DEPEND ON ASSISTANCE WHERE ESSENTIAL
As a carer, the trick to fostering successful independent living is by providing care only when it’s really needed, as this will promote self-reliance where the patient is able.Look at the below list, and decide which areas your patient really needs help with, and which they could actually take care of themselves;- Preparing meals and shopping for meals- Cleaning, and other basic house duties- Organising bills and finances- Driving- Personal grooming, and washingAltering care to only be provided where essential is a key independent living aid, and will have a knock-on effect concerning the amount of visits the patient receives from those providing assistance, who will be providing assistance (family, care staff or physicians), and where assistance will be based (in-home, hospital or care-facility based).
2. IF FEASIBLE, MANAGE OWN PRESCRIPTION AND CONSULTATIONS
While 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 raise their self-reliance, and offer a feeling of control. This process can be made simpler by setting phone reminder alerts both for consultations and to take medication. You can also ask that physicians send email/text reminders for consultations.
3. INTRODUCE SMARTPHONES
Introducing smartphones is a wonderful way to increase self-reliance in those with limited mobility, especially among seniors, who may be unfamiliar with them. Smartphones provide even bed-bound patients a level of independence by providing both a connection with the outside world, and the ability to request 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.
4. DECLUTTER THE HOUSE
Ensuring effortless movement between rooms is one of the best, and most simple, ways to encourage self-reliance in the house, both from an ease-of-use and safety point ofview. Take away anything which could induce trips or falls, such as rugs and wires, and add extra lighting (and motion sensors) where necessary, to both inside and outside the house. For people with reduced sight, place brightly coloured tape to the edges of stairs for extra support.By making movement between rooms as seamless 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 CLINICAL ALERT SYSTEM IN PLACE
Having a trusted medical alert system in place makes it easy for seniors to carry on living autonomously, yet rest assured that if anything was to happen, an alarm would immediately become activated. Medical alert systems are therefore vital in making sure that self-reliance doesn’t compromise safety. More Advice Beaucare
6. PLAN FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY
Fall systems should also be in place as a safety provision, and specialist smoke alarms installed, especially if your patient has hearing or visual problems. 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 company to talk about 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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