Maintaining Independence At Home

By Nicole Peluse Gesh,
Manager, Licensed Home Care

One of the greatest desires heard by home care professionals is to maintain independence and remain at home. This is why home care continues to expand its service menu. It is estimated that more than half of all falls resulting in injury occur at home. There are several preventative measures to help prevent falls from occurring:
- Tack rugs and flooring so they are flat.
- Be sure carpets and runners are fully attached to stairs.
- Do not stand on a chair to reach things. Keep regularly used items within easy reach.
- Be sure and have lights easily turned on when getting out of bed.
- Use canes and walkers as directed by your healthcare provider.
- Understand medications that can cause dizziness or drowsiness.
- Exercise regularly as directed by your healthcare provider.
The Lifeline personal care system can not only help save a life, but help preserve a cherished way of life by giving seniors the confidence to continue living in their own homes. Lifeline is not just for the wearer, it provides great peace of mind for the caregiver(s). An accident can happen in a split second, a medic-alert system gets help instantly. The buttons are simple, small and easy to use. They are meant to wear in bed and in the shower.
Lifeline is one of the many products and services available through Saint Francis Home Care Services, Inc. These are designed to keep patients at home and enjoying their regular activities. Often, people will shy away from the idea of a medic alert system. Many caregivers achieve success by giving it as a gift. Explaining they will take comfort in knowing the patient has the security. It isn’t just for falls, one patient woke up, didn’t feel quite right and pushed his Lifeline without getting out of bed. Another patient heard someone at the door and she felt uneasy. She pushed the Lifeline button and was connected with help.

Home Care has so much to offer both patients and caregivers. The message is to not only ask for help, but to accept the levels of support that meet the needs of your situation!