Managing independent living,where ever feasible,not only raises feelings of confidence,control and dignity,but also eases day-to-day life by lowering reliance on others. That’s why the value of promoting self-reliance in those with mobility and strength issues can not be overemphasised. Furthermore,increased independence creates a safer living surrounding,specifically 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 practising the methods outlined,independent living could be possible to many. To see how we can help -
1. ONLY DEPEND ON HELP WHERE NECESSARY
As a carer,the secret to sustaining successful independent living is by administering care only when it’s definitely needed,as this will encourage independence where the patient is able.Look at the below list,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 general house duties- Organising bills and money- Driving- Personal grooming,and showeringAltering care to only be provided where required 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 doctors),and where assistance will be based (in-home,hospital or care-facility based).
2. IF FEASIBLE,HANDLE OWN MEDICATION AND CONSULTATIONS
Whilst this independent living aid would not be advisory for all patients (such as those battling dementia),if your sufferer is able to manage their own prescribed medications and consultations,this can massively raise their self-reliance,and provide a feeling of control. This process can be made much easier by setting phone reminder alerts both for consultations and to take medication. You can also ask that medical professionals send email/text reminders for consultations.
3. INTRODUCE SMARTPHONES
Introducing smartphones is a wonderful way to increase self-sufficiency in those with limited mobility,especially among seniors,who may be unaccustomed with them. Smartphones give even bed-bound patients a level of independence by offering 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 perception of security and decreases the need to have a carer present at all times,while also easing companionship.
4. DECLUTTER THE HOME
Ensuring effortless movement in 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. Remove anything which could induce trips or falls,such as mats and wires,and add extra lighting (and motion sensors) where necessary,to both inside and outside the house. For individuals with reduced sight,place vibrantly coloured tape to the edges of stairs for extra support.By making movement in 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 possible for elderly people to continue living autonomously,yet rest assured that if anything was to happen,an alarm would immediately become activated. Medical alert systems are for that reason vital in guaranteeing that self-sufficiency doesn’t jeopardize safety. More Advice -
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 challenges. Specialist smoke alarms are wirelessly connected,meaning that if one is set off,all are triggered,and some even feature 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.
Contact us today -