Maintaining independent living, where ever practical, not only boosts 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 promoting self-reliance in those with movement and strength concerns can not be overemphasised. Furthermore, increased self-reliance produces a safer living environment, specifically in the elderly, as people are less likely to pose a threat to themselves when carrying out 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
1. ONLY COUNT ON ASSISTANCE WHERE ESSENTIAL
As a carer, the secret to sustaining successful independent living is by providing care only when it’s truly needed, as this will encourage self-reliance where the patient is capable.Look at the below checklist, and choose which areas your patient truly needs help with, and which they could actually take care of themselves;- Preparing meals and shopping for food items- Cleaning, and other basic house jobs- 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 assistance, who will be providing assistance (family, care staff or doctors), and where assistance will be based (in-home, hospital or care-facility based).
2. IF FEASIBLE, HANDLE 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 massively increase their self-reliance, and offer a feeling of control. This process can be made much easier 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 appointments.
3. INTRODUCE SMART DEVICES
Introducing smart devices is an excellent way to raise self-reliance in those with reduced mobility, especially amongst seniors, who may be unfamiliar with them. Smart devices give 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 reduces the need to have a carer present at all times, whilst also easing companionship.
4. DECLUTTER THE PROPERTY
Providing simple and easy 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 perspective. Get rid of anything which could induce 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 impaired sight, place vibrantly coloured tape to the edges of stairs for additional support.By making movement between rooms as seamless as possible you will not only boost the patient’s safety but also lessen the need for a carer to be present.
5. HAVE A CLINICAL ALERT SYSTEM IN PLACE
Having a trusted clinical alert system in place enables elderly people to carry on living autonomously, yet rest assured that if anything was to happen, an alarm would automatically become activated. Medical alert systems are for that reason essential in making sure that self-reliance doesn’t compromise safety. More Advice Beaucare
6. PLAN OF ACTION FOR SAFETY
Fall systems should also be in place as a safety provision, and specialist smoke alarms installed, specifically if your patient has hearing or visual challenges. Specialist 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 service to talk about 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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