Independent living disabled is not just possible. With so many aids for the disabled available in the UK it is extremely viable. However, knowing that a disabled person is living alone can be daunting. You will worry about your relative or family member. You will blame yourself if an accident happens. So, where to find the compromise? It comes with allowing your disabled family member to carry on living independently, but ensuring safety measures are in place.
Independent Living Disabled : Safety First
Anyone can have an accident in the home. Whether able-bodied or disabled, accidents do happen. The chances of your disabled family member having an accident are higher, and the chances of them being unable to ask for help after a fall is even greater. There are many adaptations that you can make to your home to make it safer and less of an accident zone. Remove lose rugs, objects that may get in the way of a wheelchair or walker, and most importantly install a panic alarm.
A panic alarm can be activated from a button or in the modern-age, from a smartphone. If your relative has failing eyesight, then giving them a complicated mobile phone will not help matters. Most accidents in the home amongst the elderly happen in the bathroom or kitchen. These are two areas where you should consider a panic button or alarm. If your relative lives in a home that is two storeys, it is a good idea to rearrange living arrangements so that everything is on the ground floor. Although stair lifts are a great invention, not having to tackle stairs at all is the safest bet.
The bathroom area is a danger zone as it becomes slippery underfoot when wet. Getting in and out of the bath can also present problems. Wherever possible, adapt your bathroom so that it has a walk-in shower that can be used with a wheelchair or with an additional seat. Also include grab rails by the toilet and tub.
In the kitchen, ensure that you do not have a gas cooker. Gas fires should also be replaced with electrical fires that will automatically turn off if they are covered or overheat. Invest in a kettle that is safety adapted and where it is impossible to spill boiling water onto oneself. If possible, try and agree with your family member that they should not use a cooker and to prepare food in a microwave. If they are unwilling to take your suggestions, ensure that you have a smoke alarm in your kitchen.
Many accidents amongst the elderly happen because of reduced mobility. A large amount however can happen due to memory lapses, or conditions where medication is administered and leaves your family member forgetful. The best scenario is always to have sheltered accommodation arranged with your relative if they are unwilling to move in with you and your family. In the case that their will to live alone cannot be changed, use these independent living disabled tips to minimise accidents. Having a neighbour who can check on your elderly family member is also a good idea, as well as regular visits from yourself during the day.