Important Tips on Safety-Proofing a Senior’s Home

Aging in place comes with an undoubted sense of freedom, but there are some things seniors and their families should consider. Seniors living in their homes are prone to home-related accidents that can cause different injuries, and recovering from fractures and sprains gets even more difficult in their senior years. Montgomery Home care experts share tips to enhance safety in your loved one's home without spending a fortune or making major structural changes.

1. Increase the Lighting

Having the right kind of lights is very important for seniors who can't see well. You should change the old and dim light bulbs to new, bright LED ones that don't get too hot. It's also a good idea to get lights in the hallway, bathroom, and kitchen that turn on themselves when your loved one walks by.

2. Update Smoke and Fire Detectors

Ensure your smoke detectors and alarms are tested at least once every month and replaced every ten years. In general, seniors need help testing them and changing their batteries. For seniors with hearing impairment, detectors and alarms with strobe lights and low-frequency alerts can be suitable.

3. Reorganize the Kitchen

Seniors with balance and mobility issues have difficulty bending over and reaching up. Reorganize the kitchen in a way that the items your loved one uses the most should be located between waist and shoulder height to prevent future accidents. If your loved one enjoys cooking, make it comfortable for them to sit while preparing meals and snacks.

4. Tape Down the Rugs

Rugs provide comfort and additional stability to the footsteps, but they should be secured to the floor to prevent slips and trips. A few products can help secure and keep the rugs flat on the floor, like double-sided carpet tape, carpet pins, and Velcro strips. You can also use nonslip mats and runners to replace rugs that slide around or bunch up.

5. Install Grab Bars

Seniors with balance issues normally use a cane or walker as support, but these devices can be a hassle when moving around the home. An effective and affordable way to increase your loved one's stability at home is installing a few grab bars near bathtubs, toilets, and stairs.

6. Create an Emergency Kit

Every home, especially with seniors, must have an emergency kit. Along with food and water, seniors should keep a small supply of their current medications. Make sure to keep flashlights with fresh batteries in every room in case of electricity breakdown.

7. Install Emergency Alert Systems

Emergency alert systems, often wearable devices or home-based units, can be a lifesaver for seniors in case of an accident or medical emergency. These systems allow seniors to call for help at the push of a button, connecting them to emergency services or a designated caregiver.

8. Secure Heavy Furniture and Appliances

Heavy furniture and appliances can pose a significant risk if they're they're not properly secured. To prevent items from tipping over and causing injury, use wall anchors or brackets to secure bookshelves, cabinets, and large appliances like refrigerators and stoves. This precaution becomes especially important if the senior has mobility challenges or uses mobility aids.

9. Consider Home Modifications

In some cases, significant home modifications may be necessary to accommodate a senior's changing needs. These modifications could include widening doorways to accommodate wheelchairs, installing ramps, or creating a ground-level bedroom and bathroom for those with mobility challenges.

10. Implement Fall Detection Technology

Fall detection technology has made significant advancements in recent years. Consider investing in wearable devices or home monitoring systems that detect falls and automatically alert caregivers or emergency services. These systems can provide quick assistance in case of a fall when the senior cannot call for help.

Conclusion

Safety-proofing a senior's home is a proactive and caring way to ensure their well-being and independence. By taking these steps, you can create a safe and comfortable living environment for your aging loved one. Remember that every senior is unique, so it's essential to tailor safety measures to their needs and preferences. With these safety measures, some seniors may need assistance maintaining overall health. You can opt for reliable senior Montgomery  Home Care. Families should determine the type of care their loved ones need to age in the comfort of their homes.