Looking after the seniors can be challenging for family members. As they age, they become more vulnerable with the risk of falling due to their declining physical health. It is highly important to prevent this from happening by creating an elder-friendly setting at their home. With this approach, you can save them from unfortunate events and stressful situations. Below, you will find the best tips to ensure the safety of your older loved ones.
Proper lighting
Upgrade the lamps in their house to brighter ones to improve visibility and mitigate the risks of incidents at night. It is a clever decision to install the smart motion sensor in the lighting so that your parents can easily move around the house without having to switch on or off the lamps. It also decreases the risk of stumbling when seeking the light switch.
Securing rugs and small items
We often locate rugs and other small items like books and footwear in the hallway. At your seniors’ house, you need to carefully place the rugs and ensure they won’t slip when stepping on them, as well as put away small items that are scattered on the floors. Therefore, it is recommended to use tape so the rugs remain in place on the ground.
Increase the bathroom safety
The bathroom is the second place to go the most after the bedroom. Therefore, it is important to design a secure restroom for seniors to prevent any injuries. You can add handrails from the corridor to the toilets, as well as anti-slip bathroom flooring to minimize the risk of slipping and falling. Moreover, you can use a higher toilet seat to benefit the elderly with mobility concerns. If you are worried about them dealing with difficulties while toileting alone, you can always hire home care services to assist them.
Provide them with mobile devices
Giving a cell phone to seniors isn’t necessarily for entertainment purposes, but also to increase accessibility, especially during unexpected and critical circumstances. Modern phones are built with GPS tracking features and integrated with emergency service, so they can immediately reach for urgent help.
Modify the Kitchen
The kitchen is another area where safety measures are crucial. Ensure that frequently used items are within easy reach to avoid the need for seniors to climb or stretch excessively. Install pull-out shelves and non-slip mats to prevent falls and make cooking easier and safer. Automatic shut-off devices for stoves can prevent fires if they forget to turn off the appliance.
Use Technology to Your Advantage
In addition to providing them with mobile devices, consider installing home monitoring systems that can alert you to unusual activities or emergencies. Devices such as smart doorbells, security cameras, and health monitors can offer peace of mind by keeping you informed about your loved one’s well-being in real-time.
Numerous adjustments need to be made to ensure your older loved ones will remain safe and comfortable living in their own house. Even though you have transformed your parents’ house to suit their needs, leaving them alone can’t stop your mind from worrying.
So, do not hesitate to use home care services to help you take care of your elderly loved ones. A professional home care support can significantly improve the safety and well-being of your parents. They can remain living independently, while you can rest assured knowing that they are in good hands.
