03 Jul Tips for Keeping Your Loved Ones Independent
Having independent loved ones is the ideal situation for everyone involved. It allows your loved ones to continue living independently, which is something they have been doing the majority of their lives, and it prevents you with being burdened by providing around-the-clock care.
Unfortunately, that doesn’t mean living at home is always the safest option. Make sure it’s as safe as possible with these tips.
Help them create an environment for aging in place
The home environment changes when a child enters the home. So too should it change as we age. Help your independent loved ones by creating an environment that allows them to age in place.
A few ideas include:
- Install rails and grab bars on indoor and outdoor staircases, next to the toilet, and inside the shower.
- Remove tripping hazards, like baskets on the floor, and secure all carpets to the floor.
- Install motion sensor lighting underneath the bed, in the hallways, and/or in the bathroom.
- Make important items, like pantry shelves, more accessible to prevent overreaching.
Provide them with tools and the right support
The right tools and support can make a huge difference to independent loved ones and their ability to live alone in their own home.
A few tools and support to research on their behalf include:
- Medical alert systems
- Stair lifts
- Meal delivery services
- Grocery delivery
- Rideshare programs
- Prescriptions by mail
Hiring a little extra help may be an option too. Landscapers can keep a loved one from having to mow their own lawn and housekeepers can lessen the burden of keeping the house clean.
In-home health care services can also be a great solution for families that want to keep their loved ones comfortable at home. To learn more about all of your in-home care options, contact Life & Health Care today!