Whether you are moving your loved ones into your home, or taking the steps to help them stay in their own home, their safety is the number one priority.
According to statistics, one in four Americans aged 65+ falls each year. Several individuals are injured so badly that their quality of life is forever changed. If you are noticing a need to adjust either yours or your loved ones’ home to help keep them safe, here are some tips that will get you started.
Start with an assessment:
Observe your loved one throughout the day. Watch them doing normal everyday tasks, and make lists of things that you notice that might need to be adjusted to keep them safe. Here are some things to consider, depending on the living situation…
- Eliminate thresholds at doorways that might cause them to trip.
- Add no-slip textures to steps, bathtubs and showers.
- Install a waterproof seat for the shower.
- Raise the toilet seat to help them get up and down easier.
- Clear and widen pathways for ease of mobility and to avoid tripping on things.
- Add railings to any long hallways.
- Repair any loose carpeting and remove throw rugs.
- Make sure all chords are tucked away.
Light their way:
- Make sure all hallways, stairwells, and closets are well-lit.
- Add extra lamps where necessary
- Add motion sensor lights outside and on pathways.
Modify the kitchen:
- Put items most commonly used within reaching distance.
- Move heavy items to waist level to avoid reaching too high or bending too low.
- Hang a fire extinguisher within reach.
- Keep all medications labeled, organized, and in a safe place.
- Keep a list of important numbers written in large print somewhere in plain sight (such as the refrigerator) in case of an emergency.
Making these simple modifications can help keep your loved one safe. Giving everyone peace of mind will help make difficult transitions easier.
