Maintaining independent living,whenever practical,not only enhances feelings of confidence,control and dignity,but also eases day-to-day life by lowering reliance on others. That’s why the importance of promoting self-reliance in those with movement and strength concerns 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 danger to themselves when performing daily tasks.By following the below independent living advice and practising the methods outlined,independent living can be attainable to many. To see how we can help -

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1. ONLY DEPEND ON HELP WHERE NECESSARY

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As a carer,the secret to fostering successful independent living is by providing care only when it’s definitely needed,as this will encourage independence where the patient is capable.Look at the below list,and decide which areas your patient definitely needs help with,and which they could actually handle themselves;- Preparing meals and shopping for food- Cleaning,and other standard house chores- Organising bills and finances- Driving- Personal grooming,and washingAltering 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 assistance,who will be providing assistance (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,HANDLE OWN PRESCRIPTION AND CONSULTATIONS

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Whilst this independent living aid would not be advisory for all patients (such as those contending with dementia),if your sufferer is able to manage their own prescriptions and consultations,this can massively boost their independence,and provide a feeling of control. This process can be made easier by setting up 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 SMARTPHONES

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Introducing smart devices is a wonderful way to raise independence in those with limited mobility,especially amongst seniors,who may be unfamiliar with them. Smart devices provide even bed-bound patients a level of self-reliance 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 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 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. 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 brightly coloured tape to the edges of stairs for additional support.By making movement in between rooms as smooth as possible you will not only increase the patient’s safety but also minimize the need for a carer to be present.

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5. HAVE A MEDICAL ALERT PROCESS IN PLACE

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Having a trusted medical alert system in place enables seniors to go on living autonomously,yet rest assured that if anything was to happen,an alarm would automatically become triggered. Medical alert systems are for that reason essential in making sure that independence doesn’t compromise safety. More Advice -

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6. PLAN FOR SAFETY

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Fall systems should also be in place as a safety measure,and specialist smoke alarms installed,particularly if your patient has hearing or visual problems. Expert smoke alarms are wirelessly connected,meaning that if one is activated,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 assistance putting in home security and safety measures,you can call upon Age UK’s handyperson solutions.

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