Staying Independent

Talk to people you trust about your situation - whether its family, friends, neighbours, or professionals. Sharing helps reduce pressure, especially as a caregiver, and allows others to support you with tasks and emotional care. Stay connected through calls if you can't meet in person and consider joining local support groups where you can connect with others who understand your experience.

Stay active in whatever way works best for you - whether it's a daily walk around the neighbourhood, gentle gardening, or chair yoga exercises. Regular movement not only benefits your physical health but also keeps your mind engaged through changing environments and routines. Consider volunteering at local charity shops or parks, where group activities can provide both exercise and social connection.

Maintaining a regular and familiar routine can be so helpful! Breakfast at 8am, daily walk at 9am, neighbourly chat 11am - the structure can help ease feeling of anxiety and uncertainty. Incorporating all the daily needs into a routine also ensures that needs are being met which helps improve mood and wellbeing! All these things then feed into maintaining independence in daily life, and helping to feel more in control. Have a look at the Relish Day Hub, which has been designed to aid this specific need.

Smart devices like Alexa and Google Home can assist with reminders, calls, and music. At Relish, we also offer products designed specifically for people with dementia, aiming to boost independence and confidence. The Relish Day Hub is a day clock and personal task manager, that reminds you to complete daily tasks at the same times every day. And the Relish Radio has been designed to be simple to use, making it easier for everyone to listen and enjoy music! Speak to your support network to help you find different devices that you may need.

Remember, it's okay to ask for and accept help when you need it. This can boost your independence and help you feel more at ease at home. Whether it's technology support, a friendly visit, or assistance with errands, your loved ones are happy to help you.

If you are still working, be open with your manager and colleagues about what you are experiencing. Discuss ways to adapt your role so you can continue to contribute. Maintaining a work routine can be beneficial, as it provides a sense of structure and predictability.

Focus on what you can do, Keith Oliver said it best - "I keep my independence on by focusing on what I can do, I know that I am not great in my own company so being with people really helps me. I will use activities like art, puzzles, etc to seek my independence".