Encouraging Older Adults to Be More Independent

Posted on

Nov 19, 2021


Encouraging Older Adults to Be More Independent
Sep 22, 2021|Caregivers,Eldercare,teleCalm Caregiver Phone Service









As we continue to live longer lives than the generations before us, quality of life issues for an aging population become more pressing than ever. AARP reports 90% of seniors wish to remain in their own homes, rather than move in with their children, or to an assisted living facility. In the case they begin to need daily assistance, the number wishing to stay in their own homes still remains high at 82%.

Staying at home
Back in 2015, JAMA Internal Medicine researchers found thatalmost 2 million seniorsover the age of 65, or nearly 6% of Americans in the age group (excluding nursing home residents), rarely or never left their homes. This is a greater number than the total population of residential nursing homes at 1.4 million. There areseven key risk factorsfor loss of independence including poor mental or physical health, social isolation, unsuitable environment and unsuitable living conditions.
For those defined as housebound not leaving home in the prior 30 days 80% have dementia. For the semi-housebound those who dont go out alone this figure remains high at 60%. In these cases, telephone services such asteleCalmare useful in providing peace of mind for seniors, their families and caregivers. Maintaining regular contact strengthens networks and combats isolation.
Senior care communities
Independence means many things. For some its the freedom to continue to enjoy life with some adjustments. Suburban living can be a lot of effort with many amenities only reachable by car. Senior care communities in cities, with access to public transport and more facilities nearer to hand are becoming very popular, with many being developed in the affluent and cultural areas, for example. Staff can then cover the basics such as chores and catering to allow residents to spend more time on more fulfilling activities that the community in them and the city around them provide.
Assisted living
For seniors living in assisted living facilities and their loved ones, maintaining open lines of communication with carers and facility managers is vital in helping seniors maintain their independence. As part of theirhealthcare management educationthey will have undergone specialized training in running senior living facilities and their expertise can help shape positive outcomes.
Its common for carers to organize social events, both within and outside the care home and assist in things like running small errands. By creating a suitable environment and living conditions whereby seniors in assisted living facilities are treated as individuals, research shows theyll stay more independent for much longer. Seniors may need help, but their own preferences being acknowledged and supported by care staff can help people stay more autonomous for longer and increase quality of life commensurately.
Specially written forteleCalm
By: Razia Jacine
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Malnutrition or Weight Loss: An empty fridge or significant weight loss suggests issues with meal prep or feeding oneself (ADLs/IADLs). Mobility Decline and Falls: Struggling to walk without assistance, needing help to stand, or experiencing frequent falls signals reduced mobility (ADL: transferring/ambulating). Medication Errors and Memory Problems: Missing doses, mixing up pills, or forgetting appointments point to challenges with medication management and scheduling (IADLs). Household Neglect: Piles of mail, unpaid bills, or a cluttered home reflect trouble with housekeeping and money management (IADLs). A combination of needing help with several ADLslike bathing and toiletingand difficulties with IADLssuch as meal prep and housekeepingstrongly indicates a nursing facility level of care. Document these challenges for the functional assessment to demonstrate eligibility.Were Here to Help: Next Steps and Contact InformationNavigating Pennsylvanias Medicaid waiver programs can be complex, but you dont have to go it alone. At Passion to Care, we specialize in guiding Pennsylvania families through the CHC and PDA Waiver application processesfrom the initial functional assessment of ADLs and IADLs to completing paperwork and coordinating services once approved. If you notice your loved one struggling with daily tasks or if a professional has recommended nursing facility care, it may be time to explore CHC or the PDA Waiver. Our compassionate, family-first team ensures your loved ones needs are met with dignity and respect. Call us or contact us today to learn how to get started with Pennsylvanias Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services.