What to look for to keep your elderly loved one safe at home.
There are several things to look out for in an elderly person’s home that could be unsafe. Here are some of them:
- Uneven flooring: Uneven flooring can increase the risk of falls, especially for elderly individuals who may have difficulty with balance and mobility.
- Unsafe appliances: Older appliances may be outdated and unsafe, increasing the risk of fire or other accidents.
- Inadequate heating or cooling: Extreme temperatures can be dangerous for elderly individuals, and it’s important to ensure that the home has adequate heating and cooling systems.
- Pest infestations: Pest infestations can be harmful to elderly individuals, especially those with respiratory issues.
- Lack of social interaction: Elderly individuals who are isolated may be at a higher risk of depression and other mental health issues.
- Clutter: An elderly person’s home may be cluttered with various items that could be a trip hazard, such as rugs or cords. Make sure that the home is tidy and free of any items that could cause someone to trip.
- Lighting: Poor lighting can make it difficult for an elderly person to navigate their home, especially if they have vision problems. Ensure that the home is well-lit and that there are no dark areas where they could trip or fall.
- Bathroom safety: The bathroom can be a hazardous place for the elderly, with slippery surfaces and hard objects that could cause injury. Install grab bars in the shower or bath, ensure that the bathroom floor is dry, and remove any loose rugs or mats.
- Food safety: The elderly are more susceptible to foodborne illness, so it’s important to ensure that their food is handled and stored properly. Check the expiration dates on food items and throw away anything that is expired. Make sure that the refrigerator is set to the correct temperature and that food is stored properly to prevent spoilage.
- Medication safety: Many elderly people take multiple medications, and it’s important to ensure that they are taking them correctly. Check that they are taking the right medication at the right time and that they are storing their medications properly.
- Smoke detectors: Make sure that the home has working smoke detectors, as the elderly may have difficulty hearing or smelling smoke.
- Emergency contact information: Keep a list of emergency contact information in a visible place, such as on the refrigerator, in case of an emergency.
- Consider purchasing an emergency response system in case there is a fall. These tools assist your loved one to get help when a fall has occurred.
It’s important to regularly check on elderly loved ones to ensure that their living conditions are safe and conducive to their health and well-being.