Maintaining independent living,whenever practical,not only increases feelings of self-esteem,control and self-worth,but also eases day-to-day life by reducing reliance on others. That’s why the significance of promoting self-reliance in those with mobility and strength problems can not be overemphasised. Furthermore,increased independence creates a safer living surrounding,specifically in the elderly,as people are less likely to pose a danger to themselves when carrying out daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practising the methods outlined,independent living could be attainable to many. To see how we can help Beaucare
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1. ONLY RELY ON ASSISTANCE WHERE ESSENTIAL
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As a carer,the key to fostering successful independent living is by administering care only when it’s genuinely needed,as this will encourage self-reliance 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 meals- Cleaning,and other general home duties- Organising bills and finances- 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 help,who will be providing help (family,care staff or physicians),and where assistance will be based (in-home,hospital or care-facility based).
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2. IF FEASIBLE,HANDLE OWN MEDICATION AND APPOINTMENTS
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Whilst this independent living aid would not be advisory for all people (such as those fighting dementia),if your sufferer is able to manage their own prescriptions and appointments,this can massively raise their self-sufficiency,and give a feeling of control. This process can be made much easier by setting up phone reminder alerts both for appointments and to take prescription medication. You can also seek that doctors send email/text reminders for consultations.
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3. INTRODUCE SMART DEVICES
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Introducing smart devices is an excellent way to increase self-reliance in those with limited mobility,especially amongst seniors,who may be unaccustomed with them. Smartphones 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 sensation of security and decreases the need to have a carer present at all times,whilst also easing companionship.
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4. DECLUTTER THE HOUSE
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Providing effortless movement in between rooms is one of the best,and most simple,ways to promote self-sufficiency in the home,both from an ease-of-use and safety point ofview. Get rid of 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 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 lessen the need for a carer to be present.
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5. HAVE A CLINICAL ALERT PROCESS IN PLACE
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Having a trusted medical alert system in place helps elderly people 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 independence doesn’t compromise safety. More Advice Medical Equipment
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6. PLAN OF ACTION FOR SAFETY
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Fall systems should also be in place as a safety provision,and specialist smoke alarms installed,particularly if your patient has hearing or visual challenges. Expert 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 go over 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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