How To Regain Independence At Your Home After Sustaining An Injury

Sustaining an injury can be a daunting and upsetting experience, especially if it dramatically changes your lifestyle.

It can be difficult to adjust to being housebound, or unable to perform tasks you could before the injury. However, with the right safety measures and planning, you can regain independence at home after sustaining an injury.

In this article, we will look at a few ways to make your home more independent-friendly and allow you to live life confidently post-injury.

Add a stairlift

If you have stairs in your home and a mobility issue, a stairlift can make all the difference. Stairlifts allow you to safely and conveniently get up and down the stairs without risking further injury, pain, or exhaustion. Many models are available that are customizable for different types of users, so you can find one to fit your needs.

Perhaps you don’t have the budget for a new stairlift - many used models are available at a fraction of the cost. Namely, you may want to consider reconditioned stairlifts in this case. These are carefully checked and serviced stairlifts that come with a warranty. They still meet the same safety standards as new models and can be a great cost-saving option.

Adapt your kitchen

To make your kitchen more convenient for seniors and other individuals who require additional assistance, you may need to do some redecorating. If standing too long is a problem, one smart idea would be to install countertops that are lower than the conventional height.

This will enable them to carry out tasks in the kitchen with comfort and independence despite any physical limitations they may have. You might also want to look into getting a pull-down shelf so you can reach items that are stored too high up without climbing on ladders or chairs. If you have difficulty using your hands, consider purchasing kitchen utensils with large handles or devices designed for people with limited mobility.

Make safety adjustments

One of the first steps is to make safety adjustments within your house, such as installing handrails and grab bars on stairs and in bathrooms. These can help prevent falls and make it easier for you to move around the house. Even more so, you can easily secure your bathtub or shower with a non-slip mat for extra stability.

If you rely on a wheelchair to get around, consider making modifications to your home’s layout such as widening doorways and installing ramps so that it provides full access wherever needed.

Get helpful devices

Another important step is to acquire devices that will help make daily activities easier. For example, you may need to invest in a shower chair, a wheelchair ramp for your car, or an adjustable bed. These types of devices can help make everyday tasks more manageable and allow you to regain your independence at home. While they may seem like a large expense, they are well worth it in the long run as you will be able to move around your home with more confidence. The cost of these devices will depend on the level of disability and mobility.

Establish a routine

Routines can be beneficial in many ways, but especially when you’re recovering from an injury. Having a consistent plan of activities that you do each day can help keep you motivated and focused while also helping to reduce stress levels.

For instance, you might decide to start each morning with a workout routine or stretch your muscles, then move into something more fun such as reading or watching TV. It’s important to mix in activities that both challenge you and give you pleasure.

Organize the house

Planning how to organize the house can help make your home a lot more independent-friendly. Create designated areas for items you use frequently and keep them within easy reach.

This includes anything from food to clothes, medicines, or any other important items. If you have difficulty reaching high shelves, consider getting an adjustable step ladder or invest in wall shelving that’s within easy reach.

Ask for help when needed

Embrace the support that is available to you! Friends and family are invaluable resources when it comes to completing tasks such as grocery shopping or house cleaning.

Furthermore, there are frequently a variety of home care agencies offering services ranging from meal preparation assistance to transportation aid. Don’t be scared to reach out for help if you need it - resources exist specifically with your well-being in mind.

By following these tips, you can make your home more independent-friendly and regain the independence that you may have lost due to an injury. With a bit of planning and safety adjustments, you can once again go about daily activities without worrying about whether or not you’ll be able to do them. Remember that you don’t need to tackle everything on your own - ask for help when needed and be sure to take advantage of the resources available to you. With the right mindset, a few modifications, and some helpful devices, you can stay injury-free and independent in your home.