Tips to help a loved one maintain their independence and live safely in their own home
As our loved one’s age, they may require extra assistance to maintain their independence and live safely in their own home and not in residential care. It’s important to take steps to ensure that their living environment is safe and comfortable.
Here are some tips to help you create a safe and comfortable living environment for your elderly loved one:
1. Upgrade the Home
Consider making changes to the home to make it safer and more accessible for your loved one. This can include installing handrails in the bathroom, adding grab bars in the shower, and removing tripping hazards like rugs. You can also install smart technology, such as Tunstall’s home care product solutions, to help your loved one manage better within their home and stay connected with family and caregivers. Smart home systems can help with remote monitoring of your loved one, with features such as sensors that detect movement and alert caregivers if there is a problem.
2. Invest in Practical Clothes
Clothing that is easy to put on and take off can make a big difference for an elderly person. Look for clothes with Velcro or snap closures or elastic waistbands. Also, consider purchasing shoes with slip-resistant soles to reduce the risk of falls.
3. Encourage Regular Exercise
Encourage your loved one to stay active by participating in regular exercise. This can include walking, swimming, or even simple exercises like chair yoga. Regular exercise can help improve balance and mobility, which can reduce the risk of falls. It also helps in maintaining a healthy weight and can boost the immune system.
4. Make Sure Medications are Taken Properly
Medication management is an important part of keeping your loved one safe and healthy. Make sure your loved one’s medications are taken properly and on schedule. You can use a pill dispenser, or have a caregiver administer medication if necessary. This can also help to avoid any potential side effects or interactions with other medications.
5. Keep Important Information Handy
Make sure you have important information, such as emergency contact numbers and medical information, easily accessible in case of an emergency. You can use a magnetized information board or keep a laminated card in your loved one’s wallet. This will ensure that the right people are contacted in case of an emergency.
6. Regularly Review Safety Measures
Regularly review your loved one’s living environment to ensure it remains safe. Make sure handrails and grab bars are secure, and that tripping hazards have been removed. Consider adding additional safety measures as needed. This will also include regular check-ups with the healthcare provider to ensure that the loved one’s health is in good condition and appointments are kept.
7. Keep in Touch
It’s important to keep in touch with your loved one and make sure they are not feeling lonely. Regular visits or phone calls can help to keep your loved one’s spirits up and provide the opportunity to check in on their well-being. This can also help in identifying any potential issues early on.
By implementing these tips, you can help create a safe and comfortable living environment for your elderly loved one. And with Tunstall’s smart technology, you can have peace of mind that your loved one is always connected and protected. It’s important to remember that as our loved ones age, it’s natural for them to require extra assistance, but with the right support and technology, they can continue to live in the comfort of their own home and not in residential care.
If you feel having additional 24/7 support for a loved one would be helpful but need some advice, please call our care team on 0818 999247. We would be happy to take your call.
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