It is estimated that there are about six million unpaid carers in the UK, who provide help with the daily tasks of living for family members, friends, or neighbours. This may be because the person has a long term illness, health condition, or restricted mobility. The work carers do is thought to be worth billions of pounds to the economy, as well as being a vital lifeline.
Caring for someone can be a struggle, especially if the work needs to be fitted around a regular day job or the carer has to balance it with caring for their own family. There are various support groups and charities who offer information and advice for carers, on issues such as finances and the importance of taking care of their own wellbeing.
One important area that can make a real difference to the lives of carers and the person they look after is technology and equipment. This includes digital devices to help with administering medication and booking medical appointments, as well as aids and adaptations that make everyday caring simpler and safer.
Tech solutions for the home
For people with restricted mobility, everyday actions such as turning on light switches, adjusting heating controls, and unlocking doors can be an impossible task. They may benefit greatly from voice activated controls that allow them to use speech commands. They do require that the user is able to speak clearly.
Voice controlled devices may not be suitable for people with dementia. In this case, motion sensor lights that go on and off as a person enters or leaves the room may be a good option.
The systems are widely available to buy from electrical retailers both online and in physical stores.
Remote monitoring systems
A vulnerable person who does not have someone available to be with them 24 hours a day may benefit from a remote monitoring system. These allow the carer to become alerted if the person has a fall, or leaves the home unexpectedly, as a dementia patient who is prone to wandering and getting lost may do.
Equipment and adaptations
Washing and taking care of personal hygiene is one of the biggest challenges for carers. The job can be made quicker and safer for all parties with the right equipment and adaptations. For example, bath hoists or bath lifts can be installed to assist a person with restricted mobility in and out of the bath. Wet rooms or walk in showers are a good solution for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility. Other useful adaptations include grab rails, non-slip mats, and raised toilet seats.
In the kitchen, simple changes such as storing pots, pans and utensils at a level that is easy to reach can make a difference. Replacing heavy cast iron pots and pans with lighter versions can also help. Taps with single lever controls, or that turn on and off automatically can help those with arthritic hands.
If you are interested in finding out more information about mobility bathrooms please call us on 01491 411041 or visit our website.
6 February,2023
