From Slips to Scams: Essential Safety Tips for Older Adults
June is National Safety Month, an ideal time to focus on protecting the health and well-being of older adults. Many common accidents and emergencies are preventable with a few simple steps of precaution. Whether it’s fall prevention, emergency planning, or staying alert to scams, awareness and preparation go a long way to keeping everyone safe.
Preparation
Cover your bases with a plan of action and supplies for emergencies. This includes: emergency contacts, a meeting point, communication, and an evacuation plan.
Keep essential supplies on hand, such as: a bag packed with clothes, flashlight, batteries, first aid kit, whistle or alert system, a helmet, PPE, medications, pet supplies, non-perishable food, bottled water, and toiletries. This will ensure you have enough for yourself and your loved ones to safely stay away from home for several days if needed.
Make Simple Home Modifications
Home should be a safe, comfortable space. Consider these changes for safely aging in place:
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Install grab bars in bathrooms and handrails on stairs.
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Use non-slip mats in the bathroom and kitchen.
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Improve lighting in hallways and entryways.
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Rearrange items to reduce the need to reach, bend, or climb.
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Declutter tripping hazards such as area rugs and power cables.
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Smart devices for hands-free commands.
Err on the Side of Caution
If a task feels risky, pause and think it through. For example:
Instead of standing on a chair to dust a high shelf, get help or use the proper tools to reach it. Overexertion and rushed decisions are common causes of accidents. Be patient with yourself and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. When in doubt, take a step back to avoid a major setback.
Stay Alert to Financial Scams
Scams are unfortunately common and often target older adults through:
phone calls, email, letters, door-to-door visits, and public spaces.
Protect yourself and loved ones:
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Use a pre-arranged “safe word” with those you trust to verify calls or visits.
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Don’t share personal information unless you’re sure of who you’re speaking to.
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Hang up or walk away if something feels off.
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Get in touch with a trusted contact or look up the organization’s official number to confirm the legitimacy of any request.
Stay safe, stay empowered. Taking small steps now can prevent big problems later. Let’s use National Safety Month as a reminder to keep ourselves and our loved ones informed, prepared, and protected!
Resources
Caregiver Services
www.seniorhelpers.com/tx/san-antonio-north/services
Home Modifications
https://acl.gov/sites/default/files/news%202017-03/Home_Modification.pdf
Report Scams
Emergency Kit Tips