Maintaining independent living,wherever practical,not only raises feelings of self-esteem,control and self-worth,but also eases day-to-day life by lowering reliance on others. That’s why the significance of encouraging independence in those with mobility and strength issues can not be overemphasised. Furthermore,increased independence produces a safer living surrounding,specifically in the elderly,as individuals are less likely to pose a danger to themselves when carrying out daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practicing the methods described,independent living can be attainable to many. To see how we can help -
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1. ONLY DEPEND ON HELP WHERE ESSENTIAL
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As a carer,the key to fostering productive independent living is by administering care only when it’s really needed,as this will encourage independence 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 meals- Cleaning,and other general house tasks- 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 support,who will be providing support (family,care staff or physicians),and where assistance will be based (in-home,hospital or care-facility based).
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2. IF POSSIBLE,MANAGE OWN MEDICATION AND CONSULTATIONS
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While this independent living aid would not be advisory for all patients (such as those fighting dementia),if your sufferer is able to manage their own prescribed medications and consultations,this can hugely raise their independence,and provide a feeling of control. This process can be made easier by setting phone reminder alerts both for consultations and to take prescription medication. You can also request that medical professionals send email/text reminders for consultations.
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3. INTRODUCE SMART DEVICES
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Introducing smartphones is a superb way to raise independence in those with reduced mobility,especially among seniors,who may be unfamiliar with them. Smart devices provide even bed-bound patients a level of independence 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 feeling of security and reduces the need to have a carer present at all times,while also easing companionship.
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4. DECLUTTER THE PROPERTY
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Ensuring simple and easy movement between rooms is one of the best,and most straightforward,ways to encourage independence in the home,both from an ease-of-use and safety point ofview. Remove anything which could induce 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 individuals with damaged sight,place vibrantly 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.
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5. HAVE A CLINICAL ALERT PROCESS IN PLACE
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Having a trusted clinical alert system in place allows seniors to carry on living autonomously,yet rest assured that if anything was to happen,an alarm would immediately become activated. Medical alert systems are for that reason crucial in making sure that independence doesn’t jeopardize safety. More Advice -
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6. PLAN OF ACTION FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY
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Fall systems should also be in place as a safety provision,and specialist smoke alarms installed,specifically if your patient has hearing or visual problems. Professional 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 service 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 solutions.
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