INDEPENDENT LIVING ADVICE, USEFUL AIDS AND HANDY PRODUCTSINDEPENDENT LIVING ADVICE, USEFUL AIDS AND HANDY PRODUCTS
Managing independent living, wherever feasible, not only raises feelings of self-esteem, control and dignity, but also eases day-to-day life by decreasing reliance on others. That’s why the value of encouraging independence in those with mobility and strength issues can not be overemphasised. In addition, increased independence produces a safer living surrounding, 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 practising the methods detailed, independent living could be attainable to many. To see how we can help bath hoist
1. ONLY DEPEND ON HELP WHERE REQUIRED
As a carer, the secret to sustaining successful independent living is by administering care only when it’s genuinely needed, as this will promote self-reliance where the patient is capable.Look at the below checklist, 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 standard house tasks- Organising bills and money- Driving- Personal grooming, and showeringAltering 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 help, who will be providing help (family, care staff or doctors), and where assistance will be based (in-home, hospital or care-facility based).
2. IF POSSIBLE, HANDLE OWN MEDICATION AND CONSULTATIONS
Whilst this independent living aid would not be advisory for all patients (such as those battling dementia), if your patient is able to manage their own prescriptions and appointments, this can massively boost their independence, and give 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 seek that medical professionals send email/text reminders for appointments.
3. INTRODUCE SMARTPHONES
Introducing smartphones is a fantastic way to increase self-reliance in those with reduced mobility, especially amongst seniors, who may be unfamiliar with them. Smartphones give even bed-bound patients a level of independence 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 perception of security and decreases the need to have a carer present at all times, while also easing companionship.
4. DECLUTTER THE HOUSE
Ensuring simple and easy movement between rooms is one of the best, and most straightforward, ways to promote self-sufficiency in the house, both from an ease-of-use and safety point ofview. 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 reduced sight, place brightly coloured tape to the edges of stairs for additional support.By making movement between rooms as smooth as possible you will not only increase the patient’s safety but also reduce the need for a carer to be present.
5. HAVE A MEDICAL ALERT SYSTEM IN PLACE
Having a trusted medical alert system in place makes it easy for seniors to continue living autonomously, yet rest assured that if something was to happen, an alarm would immediately become triggered. Medical alert systems are for that reason essential in making sure that self-sufficiency doesn’t jeopardize safety. More Advice Beaucare
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 problems. Specialist smoke alarms are wirelessly connected, meaning that if one is triggered, 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 support putting in home security and safety measures, you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson services.
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