Many seniors have the intention to age at home, but as one gets older, everyday activities can turn into potential hazards for senior safety. Poor lighting can lead to trips and falls, and if you don’t have a solid home security system in place, you could be a target for scams.
Aging at home should feel comfortable, not concerning. Fortunately, there are small adjustments you can do, such as installing grab bars and adding extra lighting, to greatly enhance home safety for seniors.
Fall Prevention Tips
According to the CDC, falls are one of the leading causes of injury among older adults. However, there are a few changes you can make to reduce the risk.
Install Non-Slip Flooring and Secure Rugs: Slippery floors in the kitchen and bathrooms can be dangerous for seniors. If you have slick wooden or tiled floors throughout the home, add non-slip flooring, such as textured vinyl or low pile carpeting. Area rugs can pose a hazard, especially if they aren’t secure. Add non-slip backings or secure rugs with double-sided tape to prevent shifting.
Keep Walkways Clear of Clutter: Cluttered hallways and living spaces make it more difficult to walk around and can lead to frequent trips if you aren’t careful. Go through the house and check for anything out of place: loose cords strewn across hallways or shoes left in entryways can lead to a dangerous fall if you aren’t careful. Ensure there’s a place to put all these items, like a shoe rack by the front door.
Add Grab Bars in Bathrooms and Near Stairs: Bathrooms and stairways are two of the most high-risk areas for falls in the house. To prevent falls, install grab bars near toilets and by the shower or bathtub to help steady yourself in case you feel unbalanced. Add any handrails next to the stairs to provide extra support as well.
Improve Lighting: Poor lighting can make it harder to see obstacles, especially at night. If your hallways, staircases, or entryways tend to be darker, add extra lighting to ensure easy maneuverability, especially if you tend to wake up in the middle of the night to get a glass of water or use the bathroom.
Bathroom & Kitchen Safety Tips
Slippery surfaces in bathrooms and kitchens can make these rooms dangerous, but there are a few simple strategies to enhance safety.
Install Raised Toilet Seats & Shower Chairs: If you begin experiencing mobility challenges, it’s a good idea to install a raised toilet seat to make it easier to sit and stand without straining. Also, if you have trouble standing for long periods in the shower, consider adding a shower chair for a stable place to sit while bathing.
Use Non-Slip Mats in Tubs, Showers, and by Sinks: Wet surfaces can increase the risk of falls. Add non-slip mats inside the tub or shower for extra stability and traction when stepping in and out, as well as near the kitchen sink where it may get wet when washing dishes. Place a water-absorbent rug outside of the shower to keep the bathroom floor dry.
Install Automatic Shut-Off Devices for Stoves and Appliances: If you or a loved one is worried about you forgetting to turn off a stove or an appliance after using it, consider automatic shut-off devices, which can help prevent potential fires or overheating. Slow cookers are also a great option if you’re looking to safely cook meals.
Keep Frequently Used Items Within Easy Reach: If you constantly are pulling out a chair to reach high shelves for pots, pans, or heavy dishes, this can lead to falls or even strain-related injuries. Pick out a couple of items that you use the most often and keep them within easy reach to avoid unnecessary bending, stretching, or standing up on a chair to pull it down.
Fire and Carbon Monoxide Safety Tips
According to the US Fire Administration, people are twice as likely to be killed by or injured by fires starting at age 65. That’s why it’s essential to take preventative steps to create a safer living environment for yourself or a loved one aging in place.
Install and Regularly Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: If you don’t have them already, install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in every bedroom, hallway, and living areas. Test alarms monthly and replace the batteries once a year to ensure they are functioning properly.
Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby: Make sure you have a working fire extinguisher in the kitchen and even other key areas of the home. Choose a model that’s lightweight and easy to handle, especially for seniors, and ensure that both seniors and caregivers know how to use it properly in case of an emergency. The PASS method (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep) is a simple way to remember how to use it.
How to Stay Prepared for Emergencies
Emergencies can happen any time, so it’s essential to be prepared. First, have a list of emergency contacts available, whether it’s posted on the refrigerator, near the phone, or saved on your cell phone in a clear spot. Include phone numbers of family members, caregivers, doctors, and emergency services to save time in a crisis. It’s also a good idea to have a printed copy available in your wallet or daily purse in case you need to use it when you’re away from home.
If you take a lot of medications, ensure they are organized and taken as prescribed. Consider using a weekly pill organizer and have a medication list handy (such as nearby the emergency contacts to make it easier for you) that details the names, dosages, and schedules in case of an emergency or hospital visit.
Nervous about a sudden fall or not being able to reach the phone? Utilizing a medical alert system can provide life-saving assistance at the press of a button. There are also wearable devices available that make it easy to call for help if something happens and you can’t reach the phone. Additionally, if you have a caregiver, you can set up the devices so they send alerts to them, which can provide some peace of mind if you live alone.
The Takeaway
Aging in place with independence, comfort, and well-being is possible. By creating a safe home environment, you can live longer at home and maintain the connections you have with nearby friends, family, and neighbors. And if aging in place becomes too stressful or worrisome, there’s always the option of senior living that offer safety and support when you’re ready to take the next step.