Injuries such as broken hips or a disability resulting from stroke can drastically change the lives of older adults, challenging their independence and necessitating additional support. When the unexpected happens, you want to strike a balance between ensuring your loved one receives the necessary care while supporting autonomy after injury. What are some strategies to uphold independence while ensuring safety and well-being? Read on to find out.
Understanding the Impact of Injury
Injuries that lead to a sudden loss of mobility and independence result in a need for additional support, of course, but can also spiral the family into a state of crisis and alter the confidence of the older adult. Sitting down with your loved one to align on the needed changes in daily life and the required adjustments is the first step. Consult healthcare professionals, too, to assess the level of care needed and ensure that the right support is in place. This objective, third-party medical professional may be invaluable in helping and your family in making good choices at this critical time.
Establishing a Support System
We all know a robust support system is vital for recovery and maintaining independence. Trusted family members and friends can certainly provide essential assistance and companionship, but it’s important to respect your loved one’s boundaries, values and hopes for the future. While professional caregivers and local community resources and services available for older adults can be valuable assets, the simple act of listening and accepting your loved one’s wishes equally matter at this time.
Embracing Assistive Technologies
Modern technology offers various tools and devices to aid in daily tasks and enhance safety. You and your family might investigate:
- Mobility Aids: Provide walkers, wheelchairs, or canes as needed, even if not doctor prescribed. Focus on comfort and safety above all.
- Home Modifications: Encourage necessary changes to the home environment to ensure safety and accessibility.
- Emergency Response Systems: Ask if your loved one will consider wearable emergency buttons or home monitoring systems.
Fostering Independence in Daily Activities
Practicing independence in daily tasks is essential for your loved one to maintain their self-esteem and autonomy. Using adaptive equipment for eating, dressing and bathing, along with modifying tasks to match the current level of ability, can make a significant difference. Providing positive support can promote independence and give a sense of achievement.
Maintaining Social Connections
Staying socially active is vital for emotional well-being and a sense of belonging. Encourage your loved one to engage in:
- Community Activities: Gauge interest in participation in local senior center events or religious gatherings.
- Social Groups: Ask if your loved one is open to joining clubs or groups with other older adults who share similar interests. Even picking up a new hobby that involves social interactions can help thwart loneliness.
- Family Visits: Encourage regular visits from family and friends.
Maintaining autonomy after an injury in retirement is essential for a sense of self and purpose. By establishing a strong support system, embracing assistive technologies and staying engaged in social activities, older adults can continue to live fulfilling lives. Inland Christian Home is here to support older adults in their journey to recovery and independence, offering services tailored to preserving autonomy after an injury.
“Thank you for the kind and compassionate care….it made a painful time bearable.”