While the world is, generally speaking, a safe place, sadly the potential for danger magnifies when a person is in their senior years. Everyone, your loved ones especially, deserves to feel safe and secure in their homes. Unfortunately, many unexpected things can become potential safety threats to the elderly due to the changes that the aging process can bring about. It is essential to examine the home your elderly loved ones are living in and thoroughly check for anything that needs to be fixed, changed, or added to ensure safety and healthy living.
One way to make sure that the only people entering your loved one’s home are the ones supposed to be there is investing in a camera doorbell. There’s many different styles and models available, but they all have the same basic system. A small camera attached to the bell that runs video onto a computer or smartphone to allow your loved one to see who is outside their home from the safety of indoors. That way, if they aren’t sure who is at the door they can ignore it until the person leaves. Another benefit of doorbell cameras is they can prevent the sadly common crime of package theft off front porches.
In the event that disaster strikes and your loved one needs to reach out for help, it is a smart idea to have a list of clearly written and labeled emergency numbers right next to the phone. That way, even in the heat of the moment, they’ll be able to quickly and easily see who it is they’re calling and what number to dial. Some important numbers are obviously 911, and also things like poison control, emergency contacts like family and friends and neighbors, and the number to their healthcare provider.
One of the biggest health risks for seniors living alone is falls. Consider everything in the home that could be a potential trip hazard and make any necessary modifications. Things like shower seats, stair climbers, no slip stickers in the bathroom, widened doorways and halls, railings and more can aid in moving and living safely in the home. Things that may be less obvious hazards are wheels on chairs that can slide out unexpectedly, bath mats that can fold over or bunch up and become trip hazards, locks on doors, and any electrical cords that run across the floor and can catch someone walking through.
Another common home danger is fires and carbon monoxide leaks. Ensure that each room in your loved one’s house has a smoke detector and a carbon monoxide alarm, and regularly test each one and change the batteries to ensure they are functioning properly. Also make sure that the stove and oven are always turned off, as sometimes seniors may be forgetful and leave them on. Consider installing automatic devices that will turn the stove or oven off even if your loved one forgets.
For loved ones who require assistance with mobility, whether its a cane, walker or wheelchair, make sure that whatever device they need is always able to be placed directly next to their bed or their chairs so it’s always within easy reach. Giving them a flashlight or nightlight to keep near their bed so the path from bed to bathroom can be easily illuminated in the night will prevent falls during bathroom trips.