If your loved one is living alone or spending large amounts of time alone at home, you might be worried about their safety. This does not mean that it is a bad idea to live at home, but it is important that steps are taken to make sure your home environment is safe. We have compiled a list of common safety hazards for you to assess your parents’ living situation and home safety tips to create a good environment for them.
Remove Any Fall Hazards
Falls are the most common cause of injury for older adults. However, this is easy to address by making sure that your home is fall-safe. Take a close look around your home and remove any throw rugs or warped carpeting. It is important to also avoid stretching any wires or extensions cords across the floor and prevent clutter from piling up as far as possible. Another thing to take into consideration is that if your parent is unable to walk stably, it might be better that they use a walker or wheelchair at home. This will provide them with the support they need to prevent falls when moving.
Keep All Emergency Numbers Accessible
It is important that your loved one can easily reach out to a trusted family member, healthcare services, or any emergency hotlines when something happens. This means that a list of these numbers should be placed in an accessible spot so that they can be reached even if your parent is unable to remember them. Another suggestion is to help your parents get a phone. All it takes is a basic model so that both you and your parents will be able to contact each other easily.
Keep the Bathroom Safe
One of the most dangerous places in the home is the bathroom. Not only is it a prime spot for older adults to slip and fall due to the moisture, but your loved one can also easily get scalded if the temperature controls are not set well. Make sure to install grab bars near the toilet, shower, and bathtub. Make sure to also install anti-slip rubber mats and set the thermostat on your water heater to nothing higher than 120° F to prevent burns.
Check-in with Them Often
The best way to ensure that your loved one is safe is to spend more time with them. Being there by their side will ensure that you can spot any symptoms of distress or help them if there are any necessary changes or alterations to be made. If you are unable to, perhaps consider getting your loved one to wear an alert necklace or install an emergency system to ensure their safety.
Get the Best Senior Care at Mariposa
Many older adults prefer to live alone to protect their independence, however, sometimes they just need a bit more help with their day-to-day activities. One of the best solutions for this is to consider moving into an independent living or assisted living community. Here, your loved one will be able to have their own private space and the freedom to enjoy exclusive senior living programs and amenities but still enjoy unobtrusive help round-the-clock whenever they need it.
For more information on our different living options and programs, you can contact our friendly senior living coordinator by filling in this online form or by calling us at 561.332.4899.