A fall is often the top reason independent seniors lose their mobility and begin to fade from good health. Perils in a home add up over time and increase the risk of accidents, but while a fall is unpredictable, regular home safety checks help lower the odds and keep seniors safe.
In the bathroom, ensure that any floor mats are non-skid and install grab bars and automatic nightlights to make it easier for your senior to navigate the space independently. A walk-in tub or hand-held shower head can aid your senior in independently bathing with less movement, but with more control.
In the kitchen, confirm that appliances are in good working order and within reach- no one (of any age) should be climbing to get the crockpot down from that cabinet above the fridge! Kitchens tend to gather gadgets. Work with your loved one to determine what tools and utensils are regularly used and what ones can be removed from the drawer so that it is streamlined to meet your loved one’s needs.
In the bedroom, approach closets and drawers with the same treatment as you did the kitchen drawers. Remove clothes and accessories that are no longer used, and work with your senior to place their daily dressing and grooming needs within easy reach. Check that there is a light source within reach of the bed, and that your senior can turn it on and off with ease. Set up a bedside stand where they can leave their phone and other pertinent emergency contact measures before going to sleep. It is crucial to make sure that the bed itself is easy for your senior to get in and out of, and that there are enough blankets available in case of a cold evening.
In general, look the living space over and make sure there are no tripping hazards on the floors such as cords, loose rugs, or upturned floorboards. See that the windows used by your loved one are not challenging to open and close. Smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and the like should be fully charged and accessible, and the water heater set to a temperature that won’t scald hands. Make sure that house numbers are visible- 24 hours a day- from the street.
Download a free, printable senior safety checklist here.
If you or your loved one needs assistance, At Home Senior Care now offers Peace of Mind Membership packages! We work with you to identify your needs and potential concerns and tailor a program to create a peace of mind for you and your family. Call us at 802-768-8565.