You naturally want to support your senior loved one in every way possible. While good elder care is crucial for health and wellness, maintaining independence is equally important. When older adults have more control over their lives, they feel more empowered. Here are a few steps you can take to help your loved one feel more independent and safe. 

3 Ways to Encourage Independence

1. Develop a Plan Together

Start by sitting down with your family member and getting their opinion about their current level of independence. Ask what they would be comfortable doing at home and which areas they prefer that others take care of. For example, if they're not comfortable preparing their own meals, ask them if they'd like to hire an in-home caregiver to prepare their food. 

Additionally, ask how they would like to deal with any future changes, such as the need for assistive walking devices or more advanced medical care. When you bring your loved one into the planning process, you allow them to have a say in their life. 

2. Ensure Household Chores Are Accessible

Once you've established which chores your loved one would like to handle, focus on accessibility. For example, if they express interest in setting the table before dinner, make sure dishes and cutlery are taken out of high cabinets and placed within reach. If your loved one wants to dress themselves but has trouble with buttons and zippers, look for items that don't require fasteners. 

Alternatively, if they don't feel comfortable bending down to pick items off the floor, ask them how frequently they'd like an in-home caregiver to stop by to help deep-clean the space. This way, they'll remain independent at home while a professional helps clear tripping hazards once or twice a week.

3. Make Improvements to the Home

If you're concerned about falls, discuss installing non-slip flooring accessories. This is especially important in the bathroom, which can become slippery after showers. Place a rubber mat on the floor as well as in the tub for an extra grip. The bathroom should also feature grab bars in the shower and around the toilet. 

Lighting is another important concern. Lighting throughout the home should be bright for increased visibility. You can also use smart devices that accept voice commands to allow your loved one to turn lights on and off with ease.

Securing in-home elder care is also beneficial to retaining independence. For more than two decades, Excel Home Health Care has provided dependable services throughout University City, MO. Skilled and compassionate caregivers help with housekeeping, grooming, meal preparation, medication management, and errand running. They can even provide nursing services if your family member has advanced medical needs. Visit their website to browse their elder care services. Call (314) 361-7775 to discuss your parent's needs.