Maintaining independent living, whenever feasible, not only raises feelings of self-esteem, control and self-worth, but also eases day-to-day life by lowering reliance on others. That’s why the value of encouraging independence in those with mobility and strength issues can not be overemphasised. Furthermore, increased self-reliance creates a safer living surrounding, especially in the elderly, as individuals are less likely to pose a danger to themselves when carrying out daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practicing the methods detailed, independent living can be attainable to many. To see how we can help Visit Website

1. ONLY RELY ON ASSISTANCE WHERE NECESSARY

As a carer, the trick to fostering successful independent living is by administering care only when it’s really needed, as this will encourage self-sufficiency where the patient is capable.Look at the below list, and choose which areas your patient definitely needs help with, and which they could actually handle themselves;- Preparing meals and shopping for food- Cleaning, and other basic household duties- Organising bills and money- Driving- Personal grooming, and bathingAltering care to only be provided where necessary is a key independent living aid, and will have a knock-on effect concerning the amount of visits the patient receives from those providing support, 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 PRACTICAL, MANAGE OWN MEDICATION AND CONSULTATIONS

While this independent living aid would not be advisory for all patients (such as those contending with dementia), if your sufferer is able to manage their own prescribed medications and consultations, this can massively increase their independence, and offer 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 medical professionals send email/text reminders for appointments.

3. INTRODUCE SMART DEVICES

Introducing smartphones is a fantastic 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 independence 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 sensation of security and reduces the need to have a carer present at all times, whilst also easing companionship.

4. DECLUTTER THE PROPERTY

Providing effortless movement in between rooms is one of the best, and most simple, ways to promote independence in the house, both from an ease-of-use and safety perspective. Get rid of anything which could cause 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 smooth as possible you will not only increase the patient’s safety but also lessen the need for a carer to be present.

5. HAVE A MEDICAL ALERT PROCESS IN PLACE

Having a trusted medical alert system in place makes it easy for senior citizens to go on living autonomously, yet rest assured that if anything was to happen, an alarm would immediately become triggered. Medical alert systems are for that reason crucial in making sure that independence doesn’t jeopardize safety. More Advice Beaucare Hoists & Slings

6. PLAN OF ACTION FOR SAFETY

Fall systems should also be in place as a safety precaution, and specialist smoke alarms installed, especially if your patient has hearing or visual difficulties. 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 company to talk about 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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