(NC)—The overwhelming majority of people aged 65 to 85 want to lead independent lives for as long as possible. But a recent survey from Bayshore Home Health and Ipsos-Reid shows that few are actually taking the necessary steps to help ensure they can remain in their own homes.
How can you help a loved one avoid the move to a nursing home or delay it as long as possible? Here are a few suggestions courtesy of Bayshore Home Health:
• Talk openly with family, friends and health care professionals about future needs and possible living arrangements.
• Evaluate current living arrangements. A smaller house that requires less maintenance or one that has fewer stairs might make sense. Or consider making home modifications.
• Most falls occur at home, especially in the kitchen, on the stairs or in the bathroom. Make sure stairs are well-lit, eliminate throw rugs and use a non-skid bath mat.
• Consider hiring help for housekeeping, grocery shopping or traveling to medical appointments.
• Investigate the possibility of having a nurse visit to help with on-going care or recovery from a recent hospital stay.
More information on independent living and home care is available online at www.bayshore.ca or toll-free at 1-866-265-1920.
- News Canada
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