As our elderly loved ones arrive at our family home, we want to ensure our living space is safe for them. One consideration to think about are the hazardous and poisonous items that can put our beloved family members at risk.
As an in-home senior care company, Senior Helpers North Metro Atlanta wants to help you take the necessary steps to ensure your home is as safe and secure as possible. We'll explore the most common cause of accidental poisoning and the places to look for potential poisons around the house, as well as list some tips to safely store these items to reduce the risk of unintentional poisoning.
What's the Most Common Cause of Accidental Poisoning?
Medications are the most common cause of accidental poisoning, especially in seniors. Unfortunately, some seniors take multiple medications daily, leading to confusion and overdosing. As we age, our bodies also become more responsive to medications and their side effects, making it imperative for seniors who take multiple medications to be extra mindful of their intake.
Where to Look for Potential Poisons at Home
- Bedroom: Many seniors keep a box or nightstand with all their medications and supplements in it. You should assess the contents to make sure none of them are expired or unnecessary. Keep that box away from curious children, and ensure the items are labeled correctly.
- Bathroom: Poisonous household items like cleaning supplies and toilet cleaners should be kept in cabinets and drawers that are difficult to access. Replace harsh and poisonous products with natural and non-toxic cleaning products if possible.
- Kitchen: The kitchen can house toxic substances like pesticides and bug sprays. Store these items in a locked cabinet or drawer and dispose of expired products properly.
- Medicine Storage: Consider investing in a pillbox or organizer to help your elderly family members remember what to take and when. Clearly label each medication with its instructions, and check the expiration dates on all medicines. Pills can lose their potency over time, and expired medications should not be taken.
How to Store Potential Poisons to Reduce Risk
You can help reduce the risk of accidental poisoning by properly storing potential poisons. Certain safeguards like child locks on cabinets, safety latches on drawers, and plastic containers with lids can help protect seniors from hazardous items. If you aren't sure about how to store household products, talk to a caregiver to get more suggestions.
Need Help Protecting Senior Loved Ones at Home?
Take the proper measures to keep your home safe and secure when an elderly relative moves in. Following the tips listed here, you can reduce the risk of accidental poisoning due to hazardous and poisonous household items.
If you need more assistance, Senior Helpers North Metro Atlanta is here to make sure that your elderly relatives feel safe and taken care of in your home. We offer a range of in-home senior care services in the North Metro Atlanta area, covering Atlanta, Marietta, Alpharetta, and Roswell. Contact us today for more information about our services and how we can help you keep your home safe for senior family members.