How Care Homes Across the World Are Helping Older People Maintain Independence As Much As Possible

• After all, age is just a number, as “they” say…

Many people assume that when their loved one moves into a care home, they will have everything done for them. However (luckily), this is not the case, as this has been found to speed up the acceleration of issues such as dementia, as well as cause depression and anxiety.

Maintaining independence is crucial for the elderly who are staying in care homes, and most care homes have this philosophy ingrained into everything that they do. It is essential to provide those living in these homes with the support and assistance they need while also ensuring that they can perform tasks independently.

So, here are five examples of how care homes help their residents maintain their independence.

Encouraging Physical Activity

Even a care home in Farnham Common often has a range of activities and exercise classes that their residents can participate in. These activities are designed to help maintain physical health and encourage residents to remain mobile. The activities can include anything from chair yoga to walking groups, and the care home staff is available to assist and support residents throughout the activities.

Providing Assistive Technology 

Assistive technology can be a great help for residents who struggle with certain tasks. For example, hearing aids, walking aids, and mobility scooters can help residents move around and communicate with others. Care homes often provide these technologies to residents to help them maintain their independence and remain active.

Enabling Self-Care

Care homes encourage residents to take care of themselves as much as possible. This means providing them with the necessary equipment and tools, such as grab rails and shower chairs, to enable them to take care of their personal care needs. Care home staff also provide training and support to residents to ensure they can continue to perform these tasks independently.

Supporting Social Interaction

Care homes understand that social interaction is essential for maintaining independence, and they provide opportunities for residents to socialize with others. This can include activities such as games, music sessions, and movie nights. Care home staff also encourage residents to get involved in the community and attend social events outside of the care home.

Offering Personal Care Plans 

Each resident has unique needs, and care homes develop personalized care plans for each resident to ensure they receive the support they need. These care plans are tailored to each resident’s needs and preferences, and they are regularly reviewed to ensure they remain relevant. The care home staff works closely with residents to ensure that their independence is maintained as much as possible while also addressing any concerns or issues that arise. This is crucial to remember when you have an elderly relative that is in a care home, especially if they have a progressive ailment like dementia or Alzheimer’s, as their care plan may need updating quite regularly.

Remember that care homes are committed to helping their residents maintain their independence. By providing support and assistance when needed, encouraging physical activity, providing assistive technology, enabling self-care, supporting social interaction, and offering personalized care plans, care homes can help their residents live fulfilling and independent lives.