Seniors should feel safe in their homes at all times. However, some of the most innocent features of a home could be creating the most significant risks. Things like improving the lighting in hallways and bathrooms may not seem necessary, but those simple things can prevent falls in seniors. We’ve put together a home safety checklist to look out for to help seniors striving for independent living be safer in their homes.
Identify All Trip-And-Fall Hazards
Walk through every room of the house to identify any potential trip-and-fall hazards, and think in terms of a senior who may have mobility limitations. So while a thick throw rug on the ground may seem harmless, not picking up your feet high enough to step on it can create a trip hazard. Extension cords or other exposed electrical cords can present hazards as well, so tuck those away behind furniture or put them as close to the wall as possible.
Bathrooms should also be evaluated closely since many falls happen there. Installing grab bars in the bathroom can go a long way to prevent falls, especially when getting out of the bath or shower.
Evaluate The Lighting Throughout The Home
Having appropriate lighting in and around the home can prevent falls and other injuries as well. Getting up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom can be dangerous when you can’t see where you’re going, on top of any possible balance issues you may have. Utilize night lights in bathrooms, hallways, and stairways so you can see where you’re going with every step. And remember to include outdoor lighting as well if you come home when it’s dark outside occasionally.
Label Medication Clearly
Not taking the right medication at the correct times, or taking too much or too little, can lead to devastating results. Some seniors have to take different medication types throughout the day, making it difficult to keep track of what needs to be taken at what times. Implementing a labeling system can help tremendously, and you can even take it a step further by creating a checklist of the times each type of medication needs to be taken. Seniors can improve their chances of success with independent living by staying on their medication schedule as their doctor recommends.
Secure Locks And Emergency Alert Systems
Security should be a priority for seniors striving for independent living as well. Upgrading the locks on doors and windows is important, but it’s also valuable to invest in an emergency alert system just in case a fall occurs. Every minute makes a difference, so the quicker you can get help when needed, the better your chances are of recovering.
Free Home Safety Checklist
Next Day Access provides free home assessments for seniors who want to improve the safety of their homes. Whether it’s installing a wheelchair ramp, grab bars, stair lifts, or anything else that can improve your mobility, we have you covered.
Contact us and we would be happy to explain the various options available to you.
