SELF-SUFFICIENT LIVING RECOMMENDATIONS, USEFUL AIDS AND USEFUL PRODUCTS

April 28, 2022

Managing independent living, whenever practical, not only boosts feelings of self-confidence, control and self-respect, but also eases day-to-day life by decreasing reliance on others. That’s why the value of encouraging self-reliance in those with movement and strength troubles can not be overemphasised. Furthermore, increased self-reliance creates a safer living environment, particularly in the elderly, as people are less likely to pose a risk to themselves when undertaking daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practising the methods described, independent living could be possible to many. To see how we can help Beaucare

1. ONLY RELY ON ASSISTANCE WHERE REQUIRED

As a carer, the trick to fostering productive independent living is by providing care only when it’s definitely needed, as this will promote independence where the patient is capable.Look at the below checklist, and choose which areas your patient definitely needs help with, and which they could actually handle themselves;- Prepping meals and shopping for food- Cleaning, and other basic household duties- Organising bills and money- 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 doctors), and where assistance will be based (in-home, hospital or care-facility based).

2. IF FEASIBLE, HANDLE OWN MEDICATION AND APPOINTMENTS

Whilst this independent living aid would not be advisory for all people (such as those fighting dementia), if your patient is able to manage their own prescriptions and appointments, this can hugely raise their independence, and give a feeling of control. This process can be made easier by setting phone reminder alerts both for appointments and to take prescription medication. You can also seek that doctors send email/text reminders for appointments.

3. INTRODUCE SMART DEVICES

Introducing smart devices is a great way to increase independence in those with reduced mobility, especially amongst seniors, who may be unaccustomed with them. Smart devices give even bed-bound patients a level of self-reliance by giving 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 lowers the need to have a carer present at all times, whilst also easing companionship.

4. DECLUTTER THE PROPERTY

Providing effortless movement in 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 perspective. 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 people with damaged sight, place vibrantly coloured tape to the edges of stairs for additional support.By making movement in between rooms as smooth as possible you will not only boost 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 senior citizens to go on living autonomously, yet rest assured that if something 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 https://www.beaucare.com/

6. PLAN FOR SAFETY

Fall systems should also be in place as a safety provision, and specialist smoke alarms installed, particularly if your patient has hearing or visual challenges. Expert smoke alarms are wirelessly connected, meaning that if one is activated, all are triggered, and some even include vibrating pads. Get in touch with your local fire and rescue service to discuss these specialist options further. If you need support installing home security and safety measures, you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson services.