For more information about the author, click to view their website: Seniors Blue Book
Aging in place, the choice to remain in one's own home as one grows older, is a cherished goal for many seniors. It allows individuals to maintain their independence and continue living in a familiar and comfortable environment. However, as we age, ensuring home safety becomes paramount. Hazards that were once easily navigable may pose significant risks to seniors. To help seniors and their caregivers create a secure living space, we've compiled a comprehensive home safety checklist. By addressing these key areas, you can make your home safer for aging in place.
Section 1: Preventing Falls
Install Handrails: Add handrails to staircases, both inside and outside the house. Ensure they are securely anchored to provide support while going up or down stairs.
Remove Clutter: Keep walkways, hallways, and rooms clear of clutter, loose rugs, or objects that may pose tripping hazards.
Secure Rugs: If you have area rugs, use double-sided tape or non-slip pads to prevent them from sliding.
Proper Lighting: Ensure that all areas of your home are well-lit. Consider installing motion-sensor lights in hallways and bathrooms to prevent stumbling in the dark.
Grab Bars in the Bathroom: Install grab bars near the toilet and in the shower or bathtub to assist with balance and stability.
Non-Slip Flooring: If possible, replace slippery flooring with non-slip options, or use non-slip mats or rugs in areas like the bathroom and kitchen.
Elevate Electrical Cords: Avoid running cords across walking paths, and use cord organizers to secure them along the baseboards.
Section 2: Bathroom Safety
Walk-in Shower or Tub: If possible, replace traditional tubs with walk-in showers or tubs with low thresholds to make bathing safer.
Toilet Modifications: Consider installing a raised toilet seat and a toilet safety frame to assist with sitting down and standing up.
Anti-Scald Devices: Install anti-scald devices on faucets to prevent burns from hot water.
Shower Chair or Bench: Provide a stable seating option in the shower to reduce the risk of falls.
Handheld Showerhead: Use a handheld showerhead for added convenience when bathing.
Medicine Cabinet Organization: Keep medications organized and up to date to prevent errors or missed doses.
Section 3: Kitchen Safety
Accessible Storage: Store commonly used items within easy reach to avoid the need for reaching or climbing.
Secure Heavy Items: Use earthquake straps or childproof locks to secure heavy items in cabinets to prevent them from falling.
Adequate Lighting: Ensure good lighting in the kitchen to help with meal preparation and safety.
Anti-Slip Mats: Place anti-slip mats in front of the sink and stove to prevent slipping.
Easy-to-Read Labels: Label pantry items clearly to avoid confusion and ensure the use of the correct ingredients.
Section 4: Bedroom Safety
Low Bed Height: Opt for a bed with a lower height to make getting in and out of bed easier.
Bedside Lighting: Install bedside lamps or motion-activated nightlights for safer movement at night.
Mattress Quality: Invest in a comfortable and supportive mattress to promote restful sleep.
Clear Pathways: Ensure there are clear pathways from the bedroom to the bathroom and other commonly visited areas.
Emergency Alert System: Consider a personal emergency alert system that allows you to call for help in case of an accident or medical issue.
Section 5: General Home Safety
Fire Safety: Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors on each floor of your home and test them regularly. Have a fire extinguisher accessible and know how to use it.
Stair Lift: If your home has multiple levels and stairs are a challenge, consider installing a stair lift for added mobility.
Emergency Exit Plan: Create an emergency exit plan in case of fire or natural disasters. Share this plan with family members or caregivers.
Home Security: Ensure that your home is secure by installing deadbolts on doors and security locks on windows.
Telephone Accessibility: Keep a telephone or mobile device within easy reach at all times.
Section 6: Regular Check-ins
Medical Alert System: Consider subscribing to a medical alert system that allows you to call for help in emergencies.
Regular Health Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to address any medical concerns or changes in mobility.
Home Maintenance: Regularly inspect your home for potential hazards, such as loose handrails or uneven flooring, and address them promptly.
Medication Management: Keep a record of your medications and adhere to your prescribed regimen. Review your medications with your doctor regularly.
Aging in place can be a rewarding and fulfilling choice, but it requires careful consideration of home safety. By following this home safety checklist, seniors and their caregivers can take proactive steps to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. Regular maintenance and assessments of the home, combined with assistive devices and thoughtful modifications, can create a secure and comfortable environment that supports independent living for years to come. Remember that safety is an ongoing priority, so continue to evaluate and adapt your home as your needs change with time.
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, its a beautiful reminder that autumn is upon us. While the fall season brings cozy sweaters and pumpkin spice, it also presents unique challenges, especially for seniors. With slippery leaves, shorter days, and the onset of colder weather, its crucial to take steps to ensure your home is as safe as possible. Here are some essential fall prevention safety tips to help create a secure home environment this autumn.1. Keep Walkways Clear of Leaves and DebrisFallen leaves can be beautiful, but when they accumulate on walkways, they can become slippery, especially when wet. Regularly rake and clear paths, driveways, and steps to prevent slips and falls.2. Improve Outdoor LightingAs daylight hours shorten, good lighting becomes more important than ever. Make sure outdoor lights are functioning properly and consider adding motion-sensor lights around entrances and walkways. This not only helps prevent falls but also enhances security around your home.3. Install Grab Bars and HandrailsBathrooms and staircases are common areas where falls occur. Installing grab bars in the bathroom and handrails along stairs can provide the extra support needed to prevent accidents. Ensure these are securely attached and regularly check them for stability.4. Use Non-Slip Mats and RugsSlippery floors can be hazardous, especially in areas prone to moisture, such as entryways, kitchens, and bathrooms. Place non-slip mats in these areas and secure rugs with non-slip pads to prevent them from sliding. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of falls.5. Declutter and OrganizeCluttered spaces can be a tripping hazard. Take the time to declutter your home, especially in high-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms. Ensure that cords, shoes, and other obstacles are stored away properly. A tidy home is not only more comfortable but also safer.6. Schedule a Heating System CheckAs temperatures drop, you'll likely be using your heating system more frequently. Before the cold fully sets in, have your heating system inspected by a professional to ensure it's working safely and efficiently. A well-maintained system can prevent accidents and keep your home warm throughout the fall and winter.7. Check Fire Alarms and Carbon Monoxide DetectorsWith the increased use of heating systems, its important to ensure that your fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning correctly. Test them monthly, replace batteries as needed, and consider upgrading to newer models if your devices are outdated.8. Consider a Free Senior Home Safety AssessmentFor seniors, creating a safe home environment is essential. TruBlue offers a Free Senior Home Safety Assessment to help identify potential hazards and recommend modifications to enhance safety. Our certified Senior Safety Specialists can provide personalized solutions that cater to the unique needs of seniors, allowing them to age in place safely.Fall is a season of change, and its the perfect time to take proactive steps to ensure your home is safe and secure. By following these fall prevention tips, you can reduce the risk of accidents and create a more comfortable living environment. Whether its clearing walkways, improving lighting, or installing safety features like grab bars, each small action can make a big difference.At TruBlue, were committed to helping you maintain a safe and comfortable home. Contact us today to schedule your Free Senior Home Safety Assessment and take the first step towards a safer autumn. Together, we can ensure that you or your loved ones can enjoy the beauty of the season without worry.
Recently, I tuned in to an NPR program that was discussing the concept of 'aging in place,' inspired by an insightful article in the Sun Times. As the host engaged in a conversation with her two guests, I was intrigued as they explored various aspects of traditional aging in place concepts, from the installation of safety equipment like shower grab bars to employing plug-in LED lights in hallways and on stairways to prevent falls. They emphasized the importance of having a communication plan for emergencies, ensuring that those choosing to age in their homes have a way to reach out to loved ones or first responders if the need arises. The discussion also touched on how to determine the correct timing for seeking additional assistance from in-home care companies, which offer services ranging from personal care and bathing to meal preparation, laundry, grocery shopping, and light housekeeping. My sister owns one of these types of companies, Wisdom Eldercare, which serves clients throughout the greater Chicagoland area, so I have direct experience with the remarkable level of care and services she and her caregivers provide to their clients. Undoubtedly, these types of services play a crucial role in supporting individuals who wish to maintain their independence at home. While the conversation covered these essential considerations, it surprised me that neither the host nor the guests mentioned the significance of embracing and understanding technology to assist in the aging-in-place journey even once. Although I attempted to bring this perspective into the conversation through a call-in, I unfortunately wasn't selected to participate in the conversation. Since I couldnt bring the technology component of aging in place to that conversation, I'd like to share some of my thoughts and insights on leveraging technology for successful aging in place here. In recent years, the term 'Smart device' has become increasingly prevalent, reflecting a lucrative market where companies aim to capitalize on producing 'smart' products. Everywhere you turn, be it on TV, radio, or the internet, you encounter references to Smart Speakers, Smart Assistants, Smart TVs, Smart Watches, Smart Lights, Smart Doorbells, Smartphones, and more. At its core, a 'Smart' device is simply one that can connect to the internet. The importance lies in their capacity to assist, and I want to highlight a few ways in which they can enhance the aging-in-place experience. Smart Speakers are a category of smart devices that I find to be among the easiest to incorporate into your home, offering a wide range of features that prove immensely beneficial for aging in place. Companies like Apple, Amazon, and Google have introduced Smart Speakers such as Apple HomePod, Amazon Echo, and Google Nest devices, each equipped with their own Digital Assistants Siri and Alexa for example. These devices can answer queries, from simple ones like checking the weather to assisting with more complex tasks like controlling lights, locking, or unlocking doors, accessing security cameras, and even instructing a robot vacuum to clean the kitchen. For Smart Assistants, via Smart Speakers, to interact effectively, the other connected devices with which they are communicating and controlling must also be 'Smart.' Incorporating Smart LED lights, door locks, cameras, and even robot vacuums into your home offers a seamless integration of additional Smart Devices. Picture someone ringing your doorbell, and with a simple voice command through a Smart Speaker, you can engage in a conversation with them, see the visitor, and even unlock the doorall made possible through the wonders of Smart Devices. Or imagine a scenario where your dog has knocked over their bowl of kibble and hundreds of tiny pieces of dog food are scattered all over the kitchen floor. With one simple voice command to your Smart Speaker, you can instruct your robot vacuum to clean it up eliminating the need to get out the broom and dustpan. As we consider the various elements contributing to successful aging in place, let's not overlook the tremendous potential of technology. Integrating Smart Devices into your home can empower you, providing a level of convenience, safety, and independence that complements the more traditional measures previously discussed. Embracing technology ensures that you not only adapt to the changing times but also thrive in them, creating a blend of modern innovation alongside the desire for a comfortable and secure home environment. And, as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of technology, let us not forget the profound impact it can have on our livesushering in a new era where the golden years are not just lived but lived exceptionally well, thanks to the synergy of thoughtful planning, caregiving, and cutting-edge innovation.
How to Get Your Parent to Accept Help at HomePosted: November 4, 2020 , in Aging , Caregiving , Home Care Planning