Maintaining independent living, whenever practical, not only raises feelings of confidence, control and self-worth, but also eases day-to-day life by lowering reliance on others. That’s why the significance of encouraging independence in those with movement and strength issues can not be overemphasised. Additionally, increased independence produces a safer living environment, especially in the elderly, as individuals are less likely to pose a threat to themselves when undertaking daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practising the methods detailed, independent living could be attainable to many. To see how we can help bath hoist
1. ONLY DEPEND ON ASSISTANCE WHERE ESSENTIAL
As a carer, the trick to sustaining productive independent living is by providing care only when it’s really needed, as this will encourage independence where the patient is able.Look at the below checklist, and choose which areas your patient definitely needs help with, and which they could actually take care of themselves;- Prepping meals and shopping for meals- Cleaning, and other general home chores- Organising bills and money- 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 assistance, 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, MANAGE OWN MEDICATION AND CONSULTATIONS
While 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 prescribed medications and appointments, this can hugely increase their self-sufficiency, and provide a feeling of control. This process can be made much easier by setting up phone reminder alerts both for appointments and to take medication. You can also ask that medical professionals send email/text reminders for appointments.
3. INTRODUCE SMARTPHONES
Introducing smartphones is an excellent way to increase independence in those with reduced mobility, especially among seniors, who may be unaccustomed with them. Smart devices 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 perception of security and lowers the need to have a carer present at all times, whilst also easing companionship.
4. DECLUTTER THE PROPERTY
Providing simple and easy movement in between rooms is one of the best, and most straightforward, ways to encourage independence in the house, both from an ease-of-use and safety point ofview. Remove 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 individuals with damaged sight, place brightly 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 MEDICAL ALERT SYSTEM IN PLACE
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 therefore crucial in making sure that independence doesn’t compromise safety. More Advice Beaucare
6. PLAN OF ACTION FOR SAFETY
Fall systems should also be in place as a safety measure, 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 activated, all are triggered, and some even feature vibrating pads. Get in touch with your local fire and rescue company to discuss these specialist options further. If you need help setting up home security and safety measures, you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson solutions.
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