Each year, many older Americans are injured in and around their homes often from hazards that are easily overlooked. By spotting these dangers and taking steps to correct them many senior injuries can be prevented.
Below is a list of the top 10 safety issues commonly witnessed by Home Instead Senior Care professional caregivers in the homes of seniors here in the Santa Clarita and Antelope Valleys:
1. Loose area rugs or tripping hazards. Make sure any area rugs used in the home have a rubber slip-proof backing.
2. No life alert or other pendant emergency-alert system. There are a number of systems on the market and prices and options vary, so don’t be hesitant to ask questions.
3. Spoiled food in the refrigerator. Seniors don’t like to throw things away, but spoiled food is a major hazard.
4. Lack of a safety bar in the bathtub or shower. These are vital. Don’t forget a flexible showerhead to make washing easier.
5. Shower within tub, no walk-in shower. Some contractors specialize in remodeling baths for seniors.
6. Lots of clutter or too much furniture making mobility difficult.
7. Steep steps with no railing.
8. Low supply of food. This is a sign the senior is not eating properly or regularly.
9. Poor lighting. Use nightlights in all the areas that have little light or that are dark at night.
10. No telephone near the bed. A simple phone with 911 and other emergency numbers programmed can make a senior feel more secure.
Charlene Perrone is a Certified Senior Advisor and co-owner of Home Instead Senior Care.
For more information or resources on safeguarding a senior’s home, call Home Instead Senior Care at 661-254-8701.