Maintaining independent living, wherever practical, not only boosts feelings of confidence, control and self-worth, but also eases day-to-day life by decreasing reliance on others. That’s why the importance of promoting self-reliance in those with mobility and strength troubles can not be overemphasised. Additionally, increased self-reliance produces a safer living environment, especially in the elderly, as individuals are less likely to pose a risk to themselves when carrying out daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practising the methods described, independent living can be possible to many. To see how we can help Beaucare

1. ONLY DEPEND ON HELP WHERE ESSENTIAL

As a carer, the key to fostering productive independent living is by administering care only when it’s genuinely needed, as this will encourage self-sufficiency where the patient is able.Look at the below checklist, and choose which areas your patient genuinely needs help with, and which they could really handle themselves;- Prepping meals and shopping for food- Cleaning, and other basic household tasks- 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 APPOINTMENTS

While this independent living aid would not be advisory for all individuals (such as those battling dementia), if your sufferer is able to manage their own prescribed medications and consultations, this can hugely increase their self-sufficiency, and give 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 request that medical professionals send email/text reminders for consultations.

3. INTRODUCE SMARTPHONES

Introducing smartphones is a great way to raise self-sufficiency in those with limited mobility, especially amongst seniors, who may be unaccustomed 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 perception of security and reduces the need to have a carer present at all times, whilst also easing companionship.

4. DECLUTTER THE PROPERTY

Ensuring effortless movement in between rooms is one of the best, and most straightforward, ways to promote self-sufficiency in the house, both from an ease-of-use and safety standpoint. 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 individuals with damaged sight, place brightly 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 decrease the need for a carer to be present.

5. HAVE A CLINICAL ALERT PROCESS IN PLACE

Having a trusted medical alert system in place allows seniors to continue living autonomously, yet rest assured that if something was to happen, an alarm would automatically become triggered. Medical alert systems are for that reason essential in guaranteeing that self-sufficiency doesn’t jeopardize safety. More Advice bath hoist

6. PLAN FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY

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 activated, all are triggered, and some even feature vibrating pads. Get in touch with your local fire and rescue service to discuss these specialist options further. If you need assistance setting up home security and safety measures, you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson services.

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