The most common forms of sensory impairment in the UK involve the loss of sight and hearing, often related to the effects of old age.

Sensory impairment can lead to feelings of isolation and frustration, which can in-turn result in further health problems such as anxiety and depression. Our carers are familiar with the issues caused by a loss of a sense and understand the benefits of a considered approach to care planning and delivery.

Below are some of the steps our carers employ to improve the quality of life for customers living with sensory impairment:

Loss of Sight

• Encouraging clients to visit the opticians on a regular basis – the sooner you identify the deterioration of sight the better. Many high street opticians offer free eye tests, so it doesn’t even have to cost a penny!
• Loose wires and carpets, broken handrails and clutter can cause a hazard in the home. Our carers are trained to be vigilant and will work with our clients and their family to counteract any potential dangers.
• There are a range of gadgets available which can help with everyday tasks. Typical examples include raised markings for appliance controls, clocks with high contrast faces and telephones with clearly marked and defined buttons.
• By increasing the levels of natural light entering your home, you can really make the most of your sight. Our specialist carers are trained in recognising environmental factors that may impact on your sight. This may include accessing the artificial light in your home and even a change in colour scheme – coloured borders are especially useful for differentiating areas of the home.

For more information on living with sight impairment, please visit the RNIB website.

Hearing loss

• Our carers are experienced in communicating with individuals without full hearing capacity. They appreciate how frustrating it can be when trying to understand others and remain patient and empathetic at all times. When possible, they will talk to the clients face-on allowing them to read their lip movements, gestures and facial expressions.
• There are a range of hearing aids and cochlear implants available on the market, as well as every-day items such as specialist door bells and smoke alarms that use strobe lights and vibration pads to gain your attention. Our carers are able to provide practical advice on which gadgets may improve your lifestyle.

For more information on living with hearing impairment, please visit the RNID website.