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How to Make Home Safe for the Elderly
Many seniors prefer to remain in their homes as they age. However, minor home safety issues can cause major problems for older adults.

Some changes can be completed quickly and easily, such as smoothing sharp desk corners or placing non-slip mats in the shower to prevent slipping. Others may take a bit more work, like making sure doorways are wide enough for wheelchairs or walkers.
Check for Safety Hazards

Whether you're entering your golden years or caring for an elderly loved one, a home safety checkup can help to prevent injuries and keep your senior feeling safe in their own home. Many injuries are due to hazards that are easy to overlook, but can be easily corrected with some simple changes.

fall alert systems Some safety issues are obvious, such as loose throw rugs that can cause falls or create tripping hazards for someone using a walker or wheelchair. Raised thresholds can also be a problem, so consider asking an expert to flatten them and add ramps.

Poisoning is a major concern for elderly adults, so make sure there's a carbon monoxide detector in every bedroom and that all medications are stored properly. Keep kitchen items within reach of your loved one to reduce the need for tripping over steps or straining to grab a pot handle. If your elderly loved ones struggle with bathing, special tubs and shower chairs can help them get in and out safely.
Install Grab Bars

Grab bars are among the most affordable and effective accessible home modifications. They can be positioned in a shower or by toilets to provide stability while bathing and using the restroom. Bathing and toileting are common places for falls to occur, and they can be especially dangerous when mobility and balance are compromised.

Hallways can also be hazardous, and it is important to keep them free of trip hazards. Ask a home safety expert about flattening thresholds between rooms to make them easier to navigate and consider adding indoor ramps.

Kitchens can also be hazardous for the elderly, and it is a good idea to move frequently used items from high shelves so that they are within reach. Also, be sure to remove throw rugs that could get caught up in mobility aids or electrical cords. personal gps tracker for dementia While most falls do not result in serious injuries, they can cause a senior to develop fear of falling, which can diminish their quality of life and prevent them from participating in activities.
Install Smoke Detectors

Most home fires start in bedrooms, so it’s important to install smoke detectors on each floor of the home (including basements), and near living areas. There are also specialized alarms that use strobe lights and vibration to alert people who have hearing or mobility issues, or who live alone.

Hallways should be well-lit for easy evacuation in a fire or an emergency. Make sure hallway rugs are secure and have nonslip pads under them. If ceiling light fixtures need to be replaced, consider replacing them with smart models that can turn on and off with a touch.

Kitchens should have stove knobs that are easier to grasp, and cabinets should be stocked with long-handled grabbers to reduce the need for step stools. Ask a safety expert about modifying thresholds by adding indoor ramps and widening doorways to accommodate walkers or wheelchairs. An inspector can also examine exterior space for trip hazards like rocks, loose bricks, and overgrown plants.
Stock the Home with Warning Devices

Hallways are a common area for falls, especially when hurrying to get somewhere (hurrying causes about half of all senior falls). Put nonslip mats in bathrooms, and install motion-sensitive night lights along the halls. Remove throw rugs, as they can tripping hazards, and make sure electrical cords aren’t wrapped around furniture or appliances.

A stair lift may become necessary for an older loved one with mobility issues, and installing smoke alarms can help reduce the risk of fire. If your loved one has dementia, consider a GPS tracking device or other wearable devices that can summon help with the push of a button.

Contact your local Area Agency on Aging to learn about home safety inspections, meal delivery services, and other in-home care options that can help your elderly loved one safely age at home for longer. These options can delay the need for nursing home care and potentially avoid a move to a senior living community.
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