The importance of independence as we age cannot be understated. Due to the natural ageing process or health concerns, it is normal to depend on others for extra support. While we all need a helping hand from time to time, maintaining a sense of freedom and autonomy over one’s own life is vital for both physical and mental health.
Although age or health concerns can make living independently more challenging, there is help available. If you feel that you could use some extra support at home to continue living life on your terms, home care can help you enjoy as much independence as possible whilst also providing the dedicated support you need.
Read on to learn more about the relationship between home care and independence.
WHY IS INDEPENDENCE IMPORTANT?
Independence means different things to different people. At its most basic level, it means having full autonomy and control over one’s own life. However, you define it, feeling a loss of independence can greatly impact a person’s ability to live well.
As we age, the scope of our independence can diminish due to mobility challenges or health concerns. Retaining as much independence as possible can boost mental and physical health, build confidence and self-esteem and help people feel as if they have a definite purpose in life.
A loss of independence can also contribute to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Due to health or mobility concerns, an individual may not be able to socialise with their family and friends or engage with their community as they once did.
Home care not only helps people maintain friendships and social interests, but it also provides companionship and emotional support, should they be needed.
HOW HOME CARE CAN HELP
Home care allows people with care needs to continue living independently in their own homes with the reassurance that a helping hand is also available. Here are some of the ways that receiving independent care at home can boost confidence and independence.
INDEPENDENT LIVING AT HOME
For many people, their sense of independence is largely tied to being able to stay in their much-loved homes. When given the choice, most people would choose the safety, comfort and familiarity of their own home to receive the care they need.
Care at home makes this desire entirely possible. People with care needs can avoid the distress and upheaval of moving into a care home whilst receiving the dedicated support they need to live independently.
Even if you are living with a specialist condition, like dementia, Parkinson’s or Multiple Sclerosis, our expert nurse-led care can provide you with the medical and holistic support you need to enjoy a fulfilled and purposeful life at home.
CARE PROVIDED ON YOUR TERMS
When faced with the realisation they can no longer look after themselves without additional care and support, many people fear that they will have to give up the lifestyle they are accustomed to. This is not the case with home care.
We create highly personalised care plans designed to meet your care needs whilst addressing how you wish to live your life. We always take into consideration your needs, wants and preferences to create a truly bespoke care plan.
We then take the time to match you with a carer who is compatible with you and fully understands you and your unique care needs whilst allowing you the final choice over the carer that suits you.
ENCOURAGING CHOICE AND DECISION-MAKING
We know how important it is for a person to have the ability to make their own choices in life. Our carers are there to provide you with the support you need to thrive independently, not to ‘take over’ your life.
Our care plans are designed to give each individual as much input and control over their lives and the decisions that affect them as possible. We encourage each of our clients to do as much for themselves as they are willing and able to do. By focusing on safety while still encouraging independence, we help our clients build the independent life skills they need to live life on their terms.
PRACTICAL AIDS
Many people are living with mobility or frailty concerns that make it difficult to carry out the tasks of everyday living. Most objects and appliances around the home are simply not made with accessibility in mind which can create real risks for people with mobility issues.
Our carers are trained to support safe mobility in and around the home, including everything from transferring and positioning to minimising falls through effective assessment of risk, to facilitating and supporting safe movement. They will effectively assess risks and work with clients who wish to take ‘positive risks’ so that they can have as much independence as possible.
EXPERT HOURLY HOME CARE, FOR ALL OF LIFE
For over 75 years, Prestige Nursing & Care has been trusted by our clients to provide compassionate and bespoke home care across the UK and Scotland. Our dedicated care is highly-personalised and will be tailored to meet your unique care needs while improving your quality of life and enhancing your well-being.
We offer a variety of flexible domiciliary care services that can evolve as your care needs change. Care can be provided for as little as 60 minutes a day up to as many hours/visits as you need throughout the week. With the help of our skilled carers, you can continue to live life your way while benefiting from one-to-one dedicated support.
