Community Care - The Importance of Independence in Assisted Living

Community Care

From the moment you reach adolescence, independence is recognized as we strive to become even more sustainable and resourceful. Naturally, the aging process can have other ideas, and down the line, those small tasks and responsibilities are traded off and facilitated by those trained to do so. Despite this fact, it's critical that you respect the independence of your elderly loved one and allow them to exercise their own routine and lifestyle. Your caring interests are genuine and not misplaced, but let's work on how to express them in a way that does not diminish their own capabilities and confidence in themselves.

Quality of life 

You are likely seeking the services of assisted living and community care to improve your quality of life, but you must be clear to what extent. Reframe your thinking and look through the lens of improvement rather than replacement. Rather than cleaning a home themselves, they could take on the dusting and assist with writing a list of what needs to be cleaned around the house.

Instead of catching the bus to a doctor's appointment, they could set the position and advise when the driver must leave. These tasks are not physically demanding but require the planning and mental muscles to make them happen. Regardless of age, having an active role in functions like these is vital for boosting quality of life.

Divide the responsibilities 

What are you looking to get out of this assisted living-in care offers round-the-clock assistance? And how can you get the most without compromising the feeling of independence with your elderly loved one? While it can be tempting to try and assist your loved one with anything and everything, there are better options than this. Splitting up responsibilities will allow your loved one to get the care and support they need without compromising their independence.

If you are exploring assisted living in a part-time capacity, this may be a great way to divide the responsibilities and retain independence. Monday through Thursday can be when your elderly loved one hands over the daily roles to a carer, picking them up again for the weekend. 

Respect boundaries 

There are some things that your loved one will need help with and other tasks and routines that will fall on the individual. Carers are incredibly experienced and trained in the psychology of aging and will be able to pick up cues suggesting a desire for boundaries in certain circumstances. In addition to sensitivity training, they can help with tasks like washing, cooking, regulating medication, and facilitating appointment attendance.

To avoid mixed signals, it may be recommended to have the discussion ahead of time so that clear boundaries can be discussed and outlined. This will enable a stronger connection between your elderly loved one and carer, allowing a beautiful bond to grow throughout assisted living.

Ironically, the matter of independence should be discussed and maintained by many. This approach to care may seem contradictory, as a carer could ideally take on some tasks - but it should be different. An open line of communication for all aged care matters should be adopted so that all parties are respected and aligned with a shared goal of boosting quality of life and independence.