There is nothing like living in the comfort of your own home. But, as one ages staying alone at home can get difficult. There are safety, security and mobility challenges. The below data sourced from the US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, only reaffirms the fear.
However, parting from your nest at that age can be difficult. It can be disturbing for your aging senior, emotionally. Instead of moving an older adult to a retirement home, how about availing elder care services? How about proofing the home and making it safe for your senior? These efforts from your end will be truly cherish-able. Living in your own home in your retirement years is blissful as the elderly are more comfortable and happy in their space. Read on to learn about different safety mechanisms, which can provide the conducive environment for your aging senior.
Personal Safety
- Check the shoes sole of your senior from time to time and remove the ones with slippery soles
- Add a wearable medical alert system for precaution
- Keep a medication dispenser for your senior to avoid missing pills
- Hire a professional senior care giver who can help carry out the daily chores and provide medication for the senior timely
Safety in the Kitchen
- Remove the extra utensils from the kitchen and make it clutter free
- Check and remove expired food
- Try to keep pots and other essentials at waist level
- Keep inflammable items away from the stove top as part of home safety for seniors
Bathroom Safety
- Label the faucets, hot and cold
- Have grab bars installed in the shower area and toilet
- Put rubber mats in the bathtub to prevent slipping
- Go for non slip bathroom floor tiles
- Set the thermostat of the water heater below 120 degree Fahrenheit to prevent scaling
Floor Proofing
- Make sure the walking area is well lit
- Ensure the walking area is clear of cables and objects
- Avoid the use of slippery floor cleaners and non slip flooring
- Remove loose rugs and furniture from the walking area
- Check for spills
Other Home Safety Tips for Seniors
- Check for old and loose light bulbs
- Ensure all smoke alarms are in working condition
- Check leaky pipes and get bathroom waterproofing done
- Appliances like iron and kettle should be with automatic shut off feature
Keep the above checklist handy during senior home safety inspection and proof the home, carefully. In addition, hiring a professional caregiver is a safe option. Your senior will always be accompanied and there will be someone to take care of personal hygiene and for maintaining the home. If you are looking for such professional elder care in Harrisburg and Philadelphia, then Complete Home Care is a reliable name. Our trained professionals will take care of your aging senior and help them live comfortably and happily in their own home. You can view our different services here and gift your senior a safe and secure home with a loving and compassionate, caregiver.
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