Abingdon Living Nov - Dec 2023

CARE CONSIDERATIONS:
OPTIONS
FOR CARE
IN THE
HOME
Many people living with chronic
pain, illness or limitations on mobility
maintain a strong desire to stay in
the home – but, to ensure safety,
there are lots of considerations to
bear in mind. There are various
considerations to ensure their
comfort, safety, and well-being. We
explore essential factors for providing
care at home...
MOBILITY AID
SUGGESTIONS
Wheelchairs: Wheelchairs offer
mobility for individuals with limited
or no ability to walk. Choose
between manual or powered
wheelchairs based on the
individual’s strength and preference.
Mobility Scooters: For outdoor
independence, consider mobility
scooters, which can be used for
shopping, outdoor activities, or
visiting friends and family.
Walking Aids: Walking sticks,
crutches, or walking frames provide
support for those with limited
mobility. Ensure they are the right
height and offer proper support.
Stairlifts and Ramps: Install
stairlifts or ramps to make the home
more accessible for individuals who
have difficulty climbing stairs.
Adaptive Bathroom Equipment:
Invest in grab bars, shower chairs,
and raised toilet seats to enhance
bathroom safety.
LIVE-IN CARE OPTIONS
Overnight Care: Overnight care
provides peace of mind for both
the individual and their caregivers.
Trained professionals or family
members can stay overnight to assist
with any needs that may arise.
Respite Care: Respite care offers
caregivers a temporary break while
ensuring the person’s well-being.
It can be arranged for a few hours
a day or several days a week,
depending on the caregiver’s needs.
Personal Care Assistants:
Personal care assistants are trained
professionals who offer personalised
support with daily activities such
as bathing, dressing, medication
management, and meal preparation.
Live-in Caregivers: Live-in
caregivers provide continuous
support, allowing individuals to
maintain their independence while
receiving assistance with daily
tasks and companionship. These
caregivers can also help with
household chores.
CONSIDERATIONS FOR
QUALITY CARE
Assessment and Planning:
Begin by conducting a thorough
assessment of the individual’s needs
and preferences. Create a care
plan that outlines specific tasks,
schedules, and goals.
Training and Certification: Ensure
that caregivers are properly trained
and certified to handle the specific
needs of the individual, whether it
involves medical care or assisting
with mobility.
Communication: Maintain open
and regular communication with
the care team, including healthcare
professionals, to monitor the
individual’s condition and adapt the
care plan as needed.
Safety Measures: Implement safety
measures such as fall prevention
strategies, proper medication
management, and emergency
response plans.
Emotional Support: Recognise
the emotional needs of both the
individual and the caregiver. Seek
support from support groups or
counselling services if necessary.
Caring for someone with chronic
pain, illness, or physical disability
at home requires careful planning
and consideration. By selecting the
right mobility aids and exploring
care options, individuals can
receive the support they need while
maintaining their independence and
quality of life.
26 | www.minervamagazines.co.uk