INDEPENDENT LIVING ADVICE, USEFUL AIDS AND HANDY PRODUCTS
Preserving independent living, where ever practical, not only enhances feelings of self-confidence, control and self-respect, but also eases day-to-day life by reducing reliance on others. That’s why the significance of encouraging self-reliance in those with mobility and strength issues can not be overemphasised. Furthermore, increased self-reliance produces a safer living environment, specifically in the elderly, as individuals are less likely to pose a risk to themselves when performing daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practicing the methods detailed, independent living could be achievable to many. To see how we can help Beaucare Medical Equipment
1. ONLY RELY ON ASSISTANCE WHERE NECESSARY
As a carer, the secret to sustaining productive independent living is by providing care only when it’s genuinely needed, as this will encourage independence where the patient is able.Look at the below list, and decide which areas your patient genuinely needs help with, and which they could really manage themselves;- Prepping meals and shopping for food- Cleaning, and other basic household tasks- Organising bills and finances- Driving- Personal grooming, and showeringAltering care to only be provided where essential 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).
2. IF FEASIBLE, HANDLE OWN PRESCRIPTION AND CONSULTATIONS
While this independent living aid would not be advisory for all individuals (such as those contending with dementia), if your patient is able to manage their own prescriptions and consultations, this can massively raise their independence, and provide a feeling of control. This process can be made much easier by setting up 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 SMART DEVICES
Introducing smartphones is a great way to increase independence in those with reduced mobility, especially amongst seniors, who may be unaccustomed with them. Smart devices provide even bed-bound patients a level of self-reliance by providing 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.
4. DECLUTTER THE HOUSE
Ensuring effortless movement in between rooms is one of the best, and most simple, ways to encourage independence in the house, both from an ease-of-use and safety standpoint. Get rid of anything which could cause trips or falls, such as rugs and wires, and add additional lighting (and motion sensors) where necessary, to both inside and outside the house. For individuals with damaged sight, place vibrantly coloured tape to the edges of stairs for additional support.By making movement in between rooms as seamless as possible you will not only increase the patient’s safety but also minimize the need for a carer to be present.
5. HAVE A MEDICAL ALERT PROCESS IN PLACE
Having a trusted medical alert system in place helps elderly people to carry on living autonomously, yet rest assured that if anything was to happen, an alarm would automatically become activated. Medical alert systems are for that reason crucial in ensuring that independence doesn’t jeopardize safety. More Advice Medical Equipment
6. PLAN OF ACTION FOR SAFETY
Fall systems should also be in place as a safety precaution, and specialist smoke alarms installed, specifically 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 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 services.
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