Maintaining independent living, wherever practical, not only raises feelings of self-confidence, control and dignity, but also eases day-to-day life by lowering reliance on others. That’s why the importance of promoting independence in those with mobility and strength issues can not be overemphasised. In addition, increased self-reliance produces a safer living environment, particularly in the elderly, as people are less likely to pose a risk to themselves when carrying out daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practicing the methods outlined, independent living can be possible to many. To see how we can help -
1. ONLY COUNT ON HELP WHERE ESSENTIAL
As a carer, the secret to sustaining successful independent living is by administering care only when it’s definitely needed, as this will promote self-reliance where the patient is capable.Look at the below checklist, and decide which areas your patient really needs help with, and which they could actually manage themselves;- Preparing meals and shopping for food- Cleaning, and other basic house chores- Organising bills and money- Driving- Personal grooming, and washingAltering 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 support, 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 POSSIBLE, MANAGE OWN PRESCRIPTION AND CONSULTATIONS
Whilst this independent living aid would not be advisory for all people (such as those contending with dementia), if your patient is able to manage their own prescribed medications and appointments, this can massively boost their self-reliance, and give a feeling of control. This process can be made simpler by setting up phone reminder alerts both for appointments and to take prescription medication. You can also ask that doctors send email/text reminders for consultations.
3. INTRODUCE SMART DEVICES
Introducing smart devices is an excellent way to raise self-sufficiency in those with reduced mobility, especially among seniors, who may be unaccustomed with them. Smart devices provide even bed-bound patients a level of independence by offering both a connection with the outside world, and the ability to request 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 HOUSE
Providing simple and easy movement in between rooms is one of the best, and most simple, ways to promote independence in the house, both from an ease-of-use and safety standpoint. Take away 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 damaged sight, place vibrantly 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 medical alert system in place helps elderly people to go 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 guaranteeing that self-reliance doesn’t jeopardize safety. More Advice -
6. PLAN 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 problems. Specialist 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 company 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 solutions.
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