Preserving independent living,wherever feasible,not only boosts feelings of self-esteem,control and self-respect,but also eases day-to-day life by decreasing reliance on others. That’s why the importance of promoting independence in those with mobility and strength issues can not be overemphasised. Furthermore,increased independence produces a safer living environment,particularly 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 practicing the methods detailed,independent living can be attainable to many. To see how we can help -
1. ONLY DEPEND ON ASSISTANCE WHERE NECESSARY
As a carer,the key to fostering successful independent living is by providing care only when it’s genuinely needed,as this will encourage self-reliance where the patient is capable.Look at the below list,and decide which areas your patient truly needs help with,and which they could actually take care of themselves;- Preparing meals and shopping for food- Cleaning,and other basic household chores- Organising bills and finances- Driving- Personal grooming,and bathingAltering 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 assistance,who will be providing support (family,care staff or doctors),and where assistance will be based (in-home,hospital or care-facility based).
2. IF FEASIBLE,HANDLE OWN PRESCRIPTION AND CONSULTATIONS
Whilst 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 appointments,this can hugely boost their self-sufficiency,and provide 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 ask that doctors send email/text reminders for appointments.
3. INTRODUCE SMARTPHONES
Introducing smart devices is a great way to increase self-reliance in those with limited mobility,especially amongst seniors,who may be unfamiliar with them. Smart devices give even bed-bound patients a level of self-reliance 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 feeling of security and decreases the need to have a carer present at all times,while also easing companionship.
4. DECLUTTER THE HOME
Providing effortless movement in between rooms is one of the best,and most simple,ways to promote self-reliance in the home,both from an ease-of-use and safety perspective. Take out anything which could cause trips or falls,such as mats and wires,and add additional lighting (and motion sensors) where necessary,to both inside and outside the house. For people with impaired sight,place brightly 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 minimize the need for a carer to be present.
5. HAVE A CLINICAL ALERT PROCESS IN PLACE
Having a trusted clinical alert system in place allows senior citizens to continue living autonomously,yet rest assured that if something was to happen,an alarm would immediately become activated. Medical alert systems are for that reason vital in ensuring that self-reliance doesn’t jeopardize safety. More Advice -
6. PLAN OF ACTION FOR SAFETY
Fall systems should also be in place as a safety precaution,and specialist smoke alarms installed,particularly if your patient has hearing or visual difficulties. Professional 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 support installing home security and safety measures,you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson services.
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