As our loved ones age, their bodies become more vulnerable to accidents and injuries, that is why their safety becomes a top priority, especially in their own homes. Falls are a common problem for seniors, and can cause serious injuries that can take a long time to heal. Shockingly, falling over at home is also the leading cause of injury and death among seniors (Source CDC.gov). The good news is that there are several things you can do to make a home safer and more secure for elderly loved ones. Whether you’re a caregiver, family member, or senior looking, these tips will help you create a safer environment for everyone.
1. Remove trip hazards.
It is important to start removing any trip hazards for seniors because they are at a higher risk of falling and injuring themselves. Falls are the leading cause of injury among seniors and can result in serious injuries such as broken bones, head trauma, and other injuries that can greatly impact their quality of life.
Trip hazards can include items such as loose rugs, cluttered pathways, uneven flooring, and electrical cords that are not properly secured. You can also use non-slip mats and rugs to prevent slips and falls in high-risk areas like the bathroom and kitchen. By removing these hazards, you can create a safer environment for your senior loved ones to navigate and reduce their risk of falling.
Additionally, falls can lead to a loss of independence, increased healthcare costs, and a decline in overall health. By taking proactive steps to remove trip hazards, you can help your loved ones maintain their independence and quality of life as they age.
2. Install grab bars.
Installing grab bars in areas of a home where seniors live or visit can be crucial for their safety and well-being.
Grab bars are sturdy handholds that can be installed in areas of the home where seniors may need support when standing up, sitting down, or moving around such as hallways, near the toilet and in the shower. This can greatly improve their safety and mobility, and provide a sense of security and independence. It is a simple yet effective way to prevent falls and ensure that seniors can continue to live comfortably in their own homes.
3. Improve lighting.
Poor lighting can make it difficult for seniors to see obstacles and navigate their surroundings safely. As we age, our eyesight can deteriorate, making it harder to see in low light conditions. This can be exacerbated by medical conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.
Here are some ways poor lighting can affect seniors:
- Increased risk of falls: Poor lighting can make it harder to see obstacles, such as steps or uneven surfaces, increasing the risk of falls and injuries.
- Difficulty reading: Dim lighting can make it harder to read, causing eye strain and making it more difficult to enjoy leisure activities such as reading books or newspapers.
- Reduced visibility: Poor lighting can reduce visibility, making it harder to identify people or objects in the environment. This can lead to confusion and anxiety, especially in unfamiliar surroundings.
- Reduced independence: Poor lighting can make it harder for seniors to perform everyday tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, or navigating around the home, reducing their independence and quality of life.
- To improve lighting for seniors, consider the following:
- Increase natural light: If possible, increase natural light by opening curtains or blinds, or adding skylights or windows.
- Use brighter light bulbs: Choose bulbs with higher wattage or lumen output to increase brightness.
- Install task lighting: Install task lighting in areas where seniors perform activities such as reading or cooking, to provide targeted lighting.
- Add nightlights: Use nightlights in hallways and bathrooms to improve visibility at night.
4. Consider installing a stair lift.
If you have seniors living in your home who have mobility issues, you may want to consider installing a stair lift. A stair lift is a motorized chair that travels up and down a rail mounted to a staircase, providing a safe and comfortable means of transportation between floors.
Here are some reasons why you may want to consider installing a stair lift:
- Increased safety: Seniors with mobility issues may be at risk of falling on the stairs, especially if they are carrying objects or have a condition that affects their balance. A stair lift can help prevent falls and provide a safe means of transportation between floors.
- Increased independence: A stair lift can give seniors greater independence and allow them to move between floors without the need for assistance from others.
- Comfortable and convenient: Stair lifts are designed to be comfortable and easy to use, with features such as adjustable seats and armrests, and easy-to-use controls.
- Customizable: Stair lifts can be customized to fit the specific needs of the user, with options such as curved or straight rails, and indoor or outdoor models.
- Increase property value: Installing a stair lift can increase the value of your home, especially if you plan to sell it in the future.
When considering a stair lift, it’s important to choose a reputable company that specializes in stair lift installation and maintenance. A professional installer can help you choose the right stair lift for your needs and ensure that it is installed safely and correctly.
5. Make the bathroom safer.
As we age, simple daily tasks can become more challenging, and the bathroom can be one of the most hazardous areas in the home for seniors. According to the National Institute on Aging, more than one in three seniors over the age of 65 experience a fall each year, and many of these falls occur in the bathroom. To help seniors maintain their independence and safety, it’s important to make the bathroom a safer place. By following these tips, you can make the bathroom a safer place for seniors:
Install grab bars
As previously mentioned, one of the most important safety features in the bathroom for seniors is grab bars. These bars provide support and stability when getting in and out of the bathtub or shower, using the toilet, or standing up from a seated position. Install grab bars securely on the walls next to the toilet, shower, and bathtub.
Add NON-SLIP mats
Slips and falls are common in the bathroom, but adding non-slip mats can help reduce the risk. Place mats on the bathroom floor, in the shower or bathtub, and in front of the sink.
Install a shower seat
Standing for long periods of time in the shower can be tiring and unsafe for seniors. Installing a shower seat can help provide stability and make showering easier and safer.
Adjust the water temperature
Seniors may have a harder time regulating their body temperature, so it’s important to make sure the water temperature is not too hot. Adjust the temperature on the water heater to a maximum of 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
6. Keep emergency numbers accessible.
Keep a list of emergency numbers and important medical information in a visible location. This could be on the back of the door, on the wall, or in a drawer that is easily accessible. This can include phone numbers for doctors, hospitals, and family members.
Make sure that family members and caregivers know how to access emergency numbers in case of an emergency. It’s also important to discuss emergency plans with the senior, so that everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.
By keeping emergency numbers accessible, you can help ensure that seniors get the help they need quickly in case of an emergency.
7. Secure rugs and carpets.
Loose rugs and carpets can be tripping hazards, especially if they shift or slide on the floor. Here are some tips for securing rugs and carpets:
- Use non-slip mats or rug pads
- Non-slip mats or rug pads can help keep rugs and carpets in place. These mats or pads are placed under the rug or carpet, and they help prevent slipping or sliding on the floor.
- Secure rugs and carpets with double-sided tape
- Double-sided tape can also be used to secure rugs and carpets to the floor. Place the tape on the underside of the rug or carpet, and then press it firmly onto the floor.
- Choose low-pile rugs or carpets
- Low-pile rugs and carpets are less likely to shift or slide on the floor, making them a safer choice for the bathroom.
- Avoid using rugs or carpets in high-traffic areas
- If possible, avoid using rugs or carpets in high-traffic areas of the bathroom, such as near the bathtub or shower. These areas are more prone to water and moisture, which can make rugs or carpets slippery.
By securing rugs and carpets in the bathroom, you can help prevent tripping or slipping hazards for seniors. It’s important to take steps to create a safe and secure environment in the bathroom, so that seniors can maintain their independence and safety.
8. Check for hazards outside.
Hazards outside of a senior’s home can also contribute to falls and injuries, so it’s important to take steps to identify and eliminate these hazards. Here are some tips for checking for hazards outside a senior’s home:
Check for uneven walkways and stairs
Uneven or cracked walkways and stairs can be tripping hazards for seniors. Check the walkways and stairs around the outside of the home, and make any necessary repairs to ensure they are level and in good condition.
Ensure adequate lighting
Good lighting is important for preventing falls outside the home. Make sure that all walkways, stairs, and entrances are well-lit, especially at night.
Clear debris and clutter
Debris and clutter, such as leaves or branches, can create tripping hazards. Regularly sweep or rake the areas around the home to keep them clear.
Install handrails
Handrails can provide support and stability for seniors as they navigate stairs or walkways. Make sure that handrails are securely installed and in good condition.
Address slippery surfaces
Outdoor surfaces such as decks, patios, and porches can become slippery when wet. Address slippery surfaces by using non-slip coatings or mats.
By checking for hazards outside a senior’s home and taking steps to eliminate them, you can help prevent falls and injuries. It’s important to be proactive in creating a safe and secure environment for seniors, both inside and outside of the home.
9. Consider a medical alert system.
A medical alert system can provide peace of mind for seniors and their loved ones. These systems typically include a pendant or bracelet that the senior can wear, which can be used to call for help in case of an emergency. Many medical alert systems also include fall detection technology, which can automatically call for help if the senior falls.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making a home safer for seniors is essential to prevent falls and injuries, and to help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life. There are many simple steps that can be taken to create a safer environment for seniors, such as installing grab bars, improving lighting, removing tripping hazards, and securing rugs and carpets. It’s also important to consider other factors, such as medication management and emergency preparedness. By taking these steps, you can give your loved ones the peace of mind they need to age safely in their own homes.
