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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Finding the best roofing company is vital for ensuring your roof is installed or repaired properly. Navigating through the many roofing companies can be challenging. Here, we will explore the key factors to consider when choosing a Gordy roofing company.

Assessing Your Needs

Begin by evaluating your specific roofing needs to choose the most suitable company. Take into account the type of roof, the work needed, and your budget. Knowing your needs will help you narrow down the options and find a company that best suits your situation.

Researching Roofing Companies

With a clear understanding of your needs, begin exploring different roofing companies. Examine their areas of expertise, the roofs they work on, and their project methods. Determine whether they provide services that complement your requirements. Researching these details will help you find companies that match your needs.

Credentials and Experience Matter

After shortlisting a few companies, verify their credentials and experience. Verify that the roofing company has a proven history of success and trustworthiness. This information is often available on the company’s website or can be confirmed through direct contact. Choose companies with extensive experience in the roofing industry, as it is key to reliable service.

Understanding Their Approach

It’s important to understand the approach and methods the roofing company uses. Find out about their process, including initial inspections, project planning, and follow-up services. Some companies offer a combination of methods tailored to individual needs. Make sure the company’s approach aligns with your personal preferences and project goals.

Considering Accessibility and Convenience

Evaluating the accessibility and convenience of the roofing company is essential. Find out their location and if they provide flexible scheduling options. Flexible scheduling can be very convenient for those with busy lifestyles. Consider their customer service hours to ensure they fit your schedule.

Evaluating Financial Aspects

financial considerations are important in choosing a roofing company. Look beyond the initial quote and consider the overall cost of the project. This includes materials, labor, and any additional fees. Make sure you understand the company’s pricing structure to avoid unexpected expenses.

Evaluating Customer Service

Top roofing companies have strong customer service. Check the availability of customer support and their responsiveness to inquiries. Read reviews and seek recommendations to determine the quality of their customer service. Excellent customer service ensures you get the support you need when you need it.

Conclusion

Choosing the right roofing company requires thorough research and thoughtful consideration. By assessing your needs, understanding their approach, and comparing costs and accessibility, you can make an informed decision. Remember to consider the company’s credentials and experience when making your choice. Choosing the right roofing company will help you effectively maintain your roof and achieve your project goals.

For retirees in Medicare the tax of IRMAA is happening and at a more alarming rate than ever before, so much so that the future of IRMAA will impact many more retirees than anyone is planning for. The 2025 IRMAA brackets are expected to affect even more retirees than the current brackets. Each IRMAA tier has a corresponding marginal tax rate that determines the additional premium part B and part D surcharges.

In 2007, when IRMAA first came into existence, roughly 1.7 million Medicare beneficiaries were hit with this tax.

Today, in 2023, the amount of people in IRMAA is over a staggering 6.8 million. This is an increase of 9.00% annually from 2007 and the future doesn’t look like it will decrease either.

What is the Future of IRMAA?

According to recent reports from the Trustees of Medicare, by 2030 there will be at least 12.8 million or 25% of all eligible Medicare beneficiaries in IRMAA.

This amount of Medicare beneficiaries who will be in IRMAA, according to the Trustees, must occur, regardless of what the IRMAA thresholds may become as the program itself (Medicare) will be insolvent in just a few years without it.

IRMAA is simply a revenue source for both the Medicare and social Security programs, without it both programs will be in serious jeopardy. The Social Security Administration uses your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) to determine your IRMAA tier and corresponding marginal tax rate.

What is IRMAA?

IRMAA, short for Medicare’s Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount, is a surcharge on to of Medicare Part B and D premiums for those who earn to much income. The income-related monthly adjustment amount (IRMAA) is based on your modified adjusted gross income.

IRMAA is a tax on income.

If you earn an income over a certain limit, then your Medicare premiums will increase accordingly. The more you make in oncome the Higher your premiums will be. Your adjusted gross income, as reported on your tax return, is used to determine if you are subject to the income-related monthly adjustment amount. The marginal tax rate for IRMAA can be as high as 85% for the highest income tier. 

Compounding this issue of IRMAA and its surcharges is that any surcharges you are hit by will reduce your Social Security benefit too.

You pay for your IRMAA surcharges through your Social Security benefit.

So, the more income you earn in retirement the more your Medicare premiums will be and the lower your Social Security benefit will be too. For married couples filing jointly, the IRMAA threshold is higher than for single filers. The Social Security Administration determines your IRMAA tier and premium part B and D surcharges based on your taxable income.