You might be surprised to learn that the home is the most dangerous place for seniors. It’s full of tripping hazards, tight spaces, slippery floors and worse. In fact, approximately 1500 people aged over 75 die annually as the result of a fall in the home, and more women than men over the age of 65 die as the result of an accident in the home. If your loved one prefers to grow old at home, there are steps you can take to help make their home a safe environment.
The Bathroom
The bathroom is considered the most dangerous place in the home for seniors. Many falls happen because floors are slippery. Install grab bars in the tub/shower and near the toilet. Show your loved one how to use them and make sure that they are used. There are walk-in bathtubs that you can purchase which eliminate the need for a senior to step over the edge of a tub.
Additionally, a large shower with a shower chair and a hand-held shower can make showering safe and comfortable. Non-slip mats and floor rugs are essential as well.
Flooring and Hallways
Flooring needs to be secure and it’s important to reduce or eliminate the need to step up or down. For example, a sunken living room requires a person to step down to enter it. Build a ramp to make the transition easier between rooms. All stairways need to have at least one railing, preferably two. The handrails also need to be sturdy and securely attached. Make sure that all cords and tripping hazards, like area rugs, are secured down or removed.
Lighting
Eyesight tends to fail as a person grows older. Make sure that the home is well lit and that all hallways and work spaces have direct light. Switches should also be readily accessible and easy to use.
Doorways
If a senior is using a walker, cane, or is in a wheelchair, then the doorways in the home may need to be widened to accommodate them comfortably. Additionally, if a loved one is in a wheelchair, then counter tops will need to be lowered so they can work at a comfortable level.
The Bedroom
The bed can be a dangerous place for some seniors. There is a tendency in older age to roll out of bed or to fall when trying to stand in the morning. A side rail or a half rail can help seniors stay safe in bed. And non-slip flooring beneath their feet in the morning can help them stand securely. Good lighting is essential for bedroom safety and switches should be easy to reach.
There are home safety experts that you can hire. They can provide an assessment of the safety of your loved one’s home and offer suggestions and tips. They may even be able to do some of the work for you. Making sure your loved one’s home is safe can help prevent injuries and even death. It’s a simple step to take.
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