Regardless of our age, we all strive for independence and enjoy the range of benefits that come with it. From helping to improve physical and mental health, to boosting confidence and self-esteem, independence gives us a sense of purpose and a better overall quality of life.
While ageing can make independent living more challenging, there are various ways we can support individuals living in care homes to maintain independence in their old age.
Creating Safe and Accessible Living Spaces for Seniors
Senior living has evolved in recent years. Advancements in physical environments, services and technology have transformed the care homes of the past into attractive, comfortable and enjoyable living spaces for senior residents.
By introducing some of the following solutions, independent living can be achievable to many:
- Medical Alert Systems
Medical alert systems are commonly used in care home and hospital settings to ensure residents’ needs are monitored. Having a medical alert system in place enables seniors to continue living independently, safe in the knowledge that an emergency dispatch, nurse or caregiver can be called for with just the touch of a button.
- Care Home Modifications
Simple modifications can help seniors living in care homes to maintain a safer and more independent life by minimising the risk of falling and serious injury. Examples of minor modifications include grab rails and toilet aids, which enable various needs, hygiene and otherwise, to be fulfilled independently, and ramps/stairlifts, which are especially useful for seniors living with conditions affecting mobility, such as Parkinson’s, osteoporosis or arthritis.
- Independent Living Aids
Independent living aids help seniors to remain self-reliant by taking care of simple daily activities. From teapot tippers to tap turners, there are a huge range of independent living products on the market that are designed to assist individuals with strength or mobility issues and boost confidence in the process.
Planning For Safety
Maintaining a safe environment is not only paramount to preventing injury but also to ensuring independence for seniors whose cognitive abilities may be impaired.
Care homes should be equipped with all the necessary fire safety equipment, including specialist smoke alarms, which are especially important for individuals with hearing or visual difficulties, and carbon monoxide detectors. Staff should also be trained specifically in fire safety practises for vulnerable residents.
Working With You to Ensure Independence for Seniors
At Andway Healthcare, we specialise in the provision of products and services designed to facilitate independence in care home environments. Our products are easily applied to a variety of care settings, helping your staff to provide the highest quality of care and the fastest possible response in the event of an emergency.
For expert advice regarding our product range, or to arrange a full site visit, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.