Aging in place is the choice of most seniors because it provides them with familiarity and boosts their quality of life. To increase your aging loved one’s safety, it’s necessary to develop a care plan that includes home improvements. Below are some of the hidden safety risks in a senior’s house and the steps you can take to handle these dangers.
Slippery Floors
Maintaining independence is essential for seniors, which is why you should encourage your loved one to continue grooming and bathing independently when possible. However, it’s vital to place nonslip rugs around the bathroom to prevent slippery surfaces that could lead to falls and broken bones. The mats will absorb water, lowering the odds of slick floors. Another great idea is to add grab bars in the shower or bathtub and place chairs or benches around the room to prevent your loved one from falling after bathing or while brushing his or her teeth or styling his or her hair.
One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide in-home care. Turn to Embrace In-Home Care for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour live-in care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties.
Trash Cans & Appliances
Cuts and bruises may seem minor, but they can lead to infections and other severe health problems for older adults. Open trash cans and can openers are examples of safety risks around the home. By installing locked garbage cans and keeping various objects and appliances closed, you can protect your loved one’s fingers.
It’s also necessary to place covers on sharp items in the living room, bathroom, bedroom, and other areas your loved one frequently visits throughout the day. When it comes to knives, scissors, and other sharp utensils, it’s best to store them in locations your loved one cannot access, especially if he or she is living with dementia or Alzheimer’s and has difficulty making logical decisions.
Kitchen Accessories
House fires typically occur due to preventable errors, such as tossing oven mitts and other kitchen accessories on or near the stove. Due to these mistakes, your loved one’s home could catch on fire, putting his or her safety at risk. Stop placing these items near the stove. Instead, use the kitchen island or install a towel rack to store these accessories when cooking or washing dishes. You should also check the room before meal prep and make sure all counters near the stove are clear. The stove should be turned off when not in use. This rule also applies to the oven.
Many seniors prefer aging in place over moving to assisted living facilities. If your senior loved one needs assistance to remain safe and comfortable while living at home, reach out to Embrace In-Home Care, a leading Green Valley elder care agency. Our dedicated in-home caregivers can assist with meal prep, bathing and grooming, exercise, medication reminders, and many other important tasks.
Unstable Furniture
Regardless of how much your parent loves a specific chair in the living room, it should be removed if it’s unstable and repairs aren’t possible. Failing to get rid of unsafe furniture could increase your loved one’s risk of falling and breaking his or her bones. To avoid upsetting your parent, explain the challenges and dangers of the furniture before removing the items. You can also try to find pieces that are similar to the ones you’re replacing. Include your loved one in the search process so he or she can share his or her opinions and choose comfortable items.
Some older adults need regular assistance to remain safe at home. Every senior has different needs when aging in place. Some simply need occasional assistance with household chores, while others may be managing serious illnesses and require more extensive live-in care. Green Valley seniors can count on Embrace In-Home Care to provide the in-home care they need and deserve. If your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (520) 625-2050.