What are the strategies elderly use to stay safe?
With the housing market cooling down, some buyers are focusing their attention on older homes. They are often cheaper and have mature trees and landscaping that add value over time. Older homes can also have outdated building materials, out of code electrical systems and ungrounded outlets that could cause shocks or fires.
As a result, it is important to make sure an old home is safe for senior Tips To Make Your Older Home A Safer Home living by making a list of changes that need to be made. These modifications may include removing electrical cords that are in the way, putting a light on each of the stairs, and installing motion detector lights or sound-activated lighting for safety in the event of an emergency.
It is also essential to have smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors installed in the home, along with changing the batteries on a regular basis. It is also a good idea to have emergency numbers posted in the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom, so that family or friends can be called for help in an emergency.
Other items that should be considered are locking drawers and cabinets with sharp knives, cleaning supplies, medicines and hazardous chemicals or machinery. Installing ground fault circuit interrupters in the kitchen, bathrooms and garages is another safety measure that should be taken to prevent electric shock. Lastly, it is a good idea to sign up for Family Watchdog alerts so that you can be informed if any sex offenders move into or out of your neighborhood.
One of the most dangerous things for seniors is falling in the home. Falls are the number one cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among the elderly. Fortunately, there are some easy steps that can be taken to minimize fall risks.
These precautions should be taken with all older adults. When eyesight, hearing and strength aren’t what they used to be, it is easy to trip and stumble. This can lead to severe head trauma or even a fatal hip fracture. To help prevent falls, it is a good idea to use textured no-slip flooring in the bath or shower.
These simple tips can make a big difference in preventing injuries from falls or other accidents. As the population ages, it is likely that more and more families will be caring for aging loved ones in their own homes. This is why it is important to learn about the best elder care tips that can be implemented in a home to ensure safety for all. By following these tips, an elderly adult can enjoy a comfortable and independent lifestyle in their own home for as long as possible. This is a great option for those who aren’t ready to move into a nursing facility or other type of senior care facility. For more information about how to protect your home and for more tips on elderly care, contact us at Epcon Communities today! We would be happy to assist you in any way that we can.