INDEPENDENT LIVING GUIDANCE, VALUABLE AIDS AND HELPFUL PRODUCTS

Maintaining independent living, whenever practical, not only boosts feelings of self-confidence, control and self-worth, but also eases day-to-day life by decreasing dependence on others. That’s why the importance of promoting independence in those with mobility and strength troubles can not be overemphasised. In addition, increased self-reliance creates a safer living environment, particularly in the elderly, as individuals are less likely to pose a danger to themselves when performing daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practicing the methods described, independent living can be achievable to many. To see how we can help Beaucare mobility Aids

1. ONLY RELY ON ASSISTANCE WHERE NEEDED

As a carer, the trick to fostering successful independent living is by providing care only when it’s definitely needed, as this will encourage self-reliance where the patient is capable.Look at the below checklist, and decide which areas your patient truly needs help with, and which they could really manage themselves;- Prepping meals and shopping for meals- Cleaning, and other standard home chores- Organising bills and money- Driving- Personal grooming, and showeringAltering 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 help, 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, HANDLE OWN MEDICATION AND CONSULTATIONS

While this independent living aid would not be advisory for all patients (such as those fighting dementia), if your sufferer is able to manage their own prescribed medications and appointments, this can hugely raise their self-sufficiency, and provide a feeling of control. This process can be made easier by setting up phone reminder alerts both for consultations and to take medication. You can also request that doctors send email/text reminders for appointments.

3. INTRODUCE SMARTPHONES

Introducing smart devices is a fantastic way to increase self-sufficiency in those with reduced mobility, especially among seniors, who may be unaccustomed with them. Smart devices grant even bed-bound patients a level of self-reliance by offering 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 reduces 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 house, both from an ease-of-use and safety perspective. Get rid of 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 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 reduce the need for a carer to be present.

5. HAVE A CLINICAL ALERT PROCESS IN PLACE

Having a trusted clinical alert system in place makes it possible for senior citizens to carry on living autonomously, yet rest assured that if something was to happen, an alarm would immediately become triggered. Medical alert systems are therefore crucial in ensuring 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, specifically if your patient has hearing or visual challenges. Professional smoke alarms are wirelessly connected, meaning that if one is triggered, 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 installing home security and safety measures, you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson solutions.