Promoting independence – How to make the home safe and comfortable

Caring for elderly or disabled loved ones at home can be a challenging but rewarding experience.

The ultimate goal is often to create an environment where they can maintain their independence for as long as possible while also ensuring their safety and comfort.

Adaptions in your loved one’s home can go a long way towards achieving this delicate balance.

Home layout

• Open floor plan – If possible, arrange furniture to create an open floor plan, making it easier to move around with walkers, wheelchairs or other mobility aids if needed.
• Height adjustments – If necessary, consider installing wall-mounted sinks and kitchen surfaces at varying heights, so they are accessible to people who are seated or have difficulty standing for extended periods.
• Clear paths – Ensure that there are no obstructions in hallways or doorways, which can be hazardous for those with limited mobility and reduce the risk of falls in the home.

Safety measures

• Grab bars and rails – Installing grab bars in key areas like bathrooms and stairwells can provide extra support and prevent falls.
• Non-slip flooring – Switch out smooth, slippery surfaces for non-slip flooring or mats in areas like bathrooms, kitchens and entrances.
• Proper lighting – Adequate lighting is crucial for safety. Consider installing motion-activated lights or night lights to illuminate paths during the night.

Technology

Harnessing technology in the home can offer significant benefits, enhancing both safety and quality of life.

• Emergency response systems – Wearable emergency buttons or smart home systems can be a lifeline, allowing for quick medical response in the case of a fall or other emergencies.
• Automated reminders – Digital tablets, smartphones or smart speakers can offer medication reminders, calendar alerts and other notifications to help manage daily activities.

Carer support from Nexus Care

Taking on the responsibility of caring for an elderly or disabled family member is not only emotionally taxing but also requires a particular skill set and a considerable amount of time.

This is where we come into help. As a quality provider of home care services, Nexus Care offers bespoke solutions tailored to the unique needs of each individual, allowing for a more professional and holistic approach to home care.

At Nexus Care we also have auxiliary nurses who are specially trained to offer a range of critical support services to our clients, ensuring both comfort and medical well-being.

Their expertise in areas like blood pressure monitoring and urine drip testing allows for more comprehensive and timely care, enhancing the quality of life for those we look after.

Personalised care plans

One of the standout features of our care services is the commitment to providing personalised and holistic care plans.

After an initial assessment, a dedicated carer works with your family to design a programme that respects the individual’s medical needs, lifestyle preferences and level of independence.

This allows for a more tailored care experience, ensuring that the individual’s specific needs are met adequately.

At Nexus Care, we actively collaborate with families to guide them towards the appropriate healthcare professionals, including occupational therapists, physiotherapists, district nurses and adult speech and language therapy (SALT) teams.

By coordinating with these specialists, we help ensure that our clients remain in the comfort of their own homes, while receiving the tailored care and support they need to stay independent, safe and healthy.

Minimalising hospital admissions

Promoting independence and tailoring care to the specific needs of the client in their home environment can significantly reduce unnecessary hospital admissions.

By focusing on individualised care plans, we can address the unique challenges each client faces, making it easier for them to manage daily tasks and maintain their health at home.

This not only enhances the quality of life for our clients but also alleviates the strain on healthcare facilities, contributing to a more efficient use of resources.

Specialised training for carers

All Nexus Care staff undergo comprehensive training in elder care, disability care and specialist medical care like dementia or palliative care.

This ensures that our carers are fully equipped to deal with any situation, whether it’s administering medication, providing emotional support or handling emergency situations.

Furthermore, ongoing training ensures that our carers are always up to date with the latest healthcare practices.

Making a home safe and comfortable for elderly or disabled individuals requires careful planning and thoughtful execution.

By making these adaptions, you not only provide a safer environment but also promote a level of independence that can greatly contribute to your loved one’s quality of life.

At Nexus Care Services, we provide tailored care plans to support your individual needs. If you or a loved one needs support, contact us today at 0121 308 2906.