Independence is an important quality of life for everyone, regardless of age. Independence can provide a sense of identity, pride, and a purpose in life. Continuing a sense of independence as we age is even more important. Reduced mobility or increased reliance on other people for once common tasks can reduce a feeling of independence and leave an older person feeling discouraged and demoralized with life. A care home can provide care on many levels for its residents, and one of the benefits of this type of care is that it can empower and nurture independence in older adults.
Personalized Care
Care homes are designed for the well-being of their elderly residents. The physical structure of the building is designed for those with limited mobility in mind, and the staff are fully trained in recognizing and meeting the needs that an older person might have. The care home can create a care plan with other medical professionals and the resident to make sure that their unique needs are met.
The result of all of this is that on entering a care home, an older adult is likely to improve in health – they have their medical needs tended to correctly and are cared for by trained staff. It is often the case that a person regains some strength and balance, increasing their mobility and thus returning a level of independence that they might have lost before becoming a resident.
A High Level of Security
A high level of security might seem counter-intuitive in a discussion on independence. However, when a care home provides physical safety to its residents, they can explore safely and have security to make decisions. For instance, a person with Dementia might need to be constantly watched in another setting, but in a facility like Signature Care Homes in Kingston, the building is secure in terms of its perimeter and medication or chemicals. Therefore, the resident can explore freely without needing to be observed constantly, which can give a great sense of freedom, particularly for one who might only have temporary lapses.
A resident with reduced mobility would also have more confidence to explore outside if they know staff are nearby to help in case of a fall or to try new foods if someone else is cooking and they don’t need to risk burns.
Greater Socialization
Socialization is a great part of what makes us individuals. Being able to talk about our likes and dislikes, or even just interact with the world outside our heads, can be a great source of comfort and independence. Care homes naturally have several other people who live there, making it much easier for an individual to socialize and reestablish their personality with new friends.
Most care homes also supply various activities for the residents to join in with (as and when they choose). This helps older adults explore activities they have always enjoyed or start up some they had never considered – all of which encourage independence and growth as individuals.
