Article written by McKenzie Wilson.
Personal safety tips for people with disabilities will depend a lot on the type of disability and the person’s specific needs. Some people are relatively independent or, with good physical and occupational therapy, can become even more independent. Others require a lot of care 24/7, or have progressive conditions (Alzheimer’s is one) and will become more dependent as time goes on.
One of the main essential safety tips for people with disabilities is to find those agencies that will provide specialised care services. These centres also offer funding for caregivers to assist them and provided needed breaks.
Be sure to get support as well as time off for yourself. Caregiving is extremely stressful and many studies have shown that care can negatively affect the caregiver. It is not only due to stress, but also not taking care of your own health needs. Make sure to make and keep appointments for yourself with your doctor, dentist, eye doctor – just as you did before – and to do what they say is needed for your health. Regular exercise will also be essential for you to keep you healthy and mentally positive.
People with disabilities should also be treated as equals. They are person first and not their disability. There is always a way to help people with disabilities. However, you do not need to jump on assisting them. Do not assume that they need help. If you care for a person with a severe disability who is more dependent, consider the following safety precautions.
Turn off electrical appliances when leaving the home
Whenever you leave the house, turned off all the appliances in the home. Especially check the electrical appliances present in the kitchen. Smart gadgets can set a reminder so that you never forget to turn the devices off. This can help prevent accidental fires.
Do not allow unknown people in their space
If you do not know a person, do not let them stay near the people with a disability. They may be dangerous or cause discomfort to the person with a disability. They might also not be able to assist if the person with a disability tries to communicate.
Way of communication
Speak clearly and listen. Pay close attention to what the person in your care says. Avoid making them repeat themselves. Ask short, yes-no questions so that they can respond by nodding their head if speech is difficult. It is crucial to their safety to be able to communicate efficiently.
Consider disability etiquette
It would be best if you always had a basic understanding of disability etiquette. This can help a person with a disability feel much more comfortable. If you are looking to help them directly, consider contacting some disability organisations. They can assist with the etiquette to consider, but also support you with caring for the individual.
Buying caregiver pager
One of the best options is to buy caregiver pager. It is a wireless system and intelligent devices that can be used by the elderly or a person with a disability when in need. A click of a button can notify the caregiver that they are in distress. There is no need to yell to attract attention. In this way, the caregiver can easily be reached when separated either to allow the caregiver to perform other duties, when the person with a disability requests privacy, or when separated in a public space.
For more information on specialised care services offered by Living Home Care Inc visit www.livinghomecareinc.com.
