A guide to supporting independence in older adults: Issue 2

Most healthcare professionals are aware of the benefits of older patients maintaining their independence by continuing to age at home. Living in their own home can give older adults a sense of control over their lives and enables them to stay connected with friends, family and the community. It can also help reinforce the feelings of freedom and purpose, and help them continue to feel positively about themselves.

However, as they age, older adults can become more at risk of future medical events, such as accidents, cardiovascular issues and respiratory concerns. These events, as well as ongoing chronic conditions, can threaten their independence, especially if they live alone and are unable to get the help they might need.

As a healthcare professional, you can support your patients’ independence by ensuring appropriate safeguards are in place.

In this guide, we have assembled a number of articles about the issues facing older adults, drawn from information published by New Zealand Doctor Rata Aotearoa. This is the second guide we have compiled with the assistance of Hato Hone St John and Dr Ngaire Kerse. It is intended to serve as a useful resource as you consider how to support the independence that your older patients desire.

The first guide can be viewed and downloaded at: nzdoctor.co.nz/educate/independence

If you would prefer to view a flipbook version of the guide on your device, click the "fullscreen" button at the bottom right of this display:

For more information about St John Medical Alarms, visit: stjohnalarms.org.nz/hcp