Most people do not think that homes can be dangerous, especially if they have lived in them for years. Homes offer a space of familiarity, especially as people undergo serious life changes and health issues. However, homes can present senior citizens with a multitude of risks that are unaccounted for. We have all heard the stories of people falling in the shower or tub, or perhaps down a stairway. While younger people will have no issue getting up with a scrape and bruise, the elderly are at risk for potential injuries that can even be fatal. While risks in a home arise, they are preventable. Here are the most common risks for senior citizens living at home:
Falls
For adults 65 and older, the most common type of injury occurs by falls. Falls lead to multiple injuries arising as they can happen to anyone. As the number of senior citizens that fall increases, the need to implement safety measures is more relevant than ever. As seniors change physically in terms of aging, they can experience hearing and vision loss, balance problems, bone density loss, and more. By taking precautions, seniors can look out for and move things in their homes around. Removing small pieces of furniture, cords, rugs, and other scattered items can improve the safety of a home. Most might be curious as to why rugs need to be removed. Well, since rugs are not necessarily attached to the floor, they can be slippery and move around easily. Therefore, a senior that is walking on the rug risks potentially slipping.
Installing more lighting into a room can ensure that seniors see what is around them. As vision tends to change with age, adding lighting can ensure that every aspect of a home is well lit, making objects more visible. Changing the layout of a home’s furniture might also be beneficial. When furniture is re-arranged in a way that is more accessible to seniors, the risk of falling decreases. An easy way seniors can improve their safety is by wearing slip-proof footwear. This means no more walking around in plain socks. If seniors find themselves not being able to walk without holding onto something, including walls, they should be utilizing a cane or walker. These tools can significantly decrease the likeliness of any accidents. In bathrooms, rubber mats that are placed in the shower and near toilets can avoid unpleasant accidents. Lastly, seniors should consider using special alarm jewelry that alerts medical services when needed.
Fires
Fires are avoidable and preventative tips can assist in ensuring one never occurs. While fires are common, they are increasingly common for seniors that use oxygen tanks. To avoid fires from occurring, smoke detectors should be checked regularly, candles should be put out, open flames should be away from oxygen tanks, and cords should not be near anything that can burn them.
Injuries
As mentioned, senior citizens are more likely to face unexpected accidents in their homes. A report by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission states nearly 1 million people 65 and older will visit the hospital each year as a result of injuries. By installing safety precaution items into a home, these numbers can be greatly reduced. Also ensuring to check around for any items that can cause issues is essential.
Adaptable Home Solutions
Seniors should be granted the ability to age in place safely without any posed threats. Adaptable Home Solutions makes it easy for seniors to live in their homes longer through the assistance of Certified Aging in Place Specialists. Adaptable Home Solutions offers staircase lifts, grab bars, handrails, and more. For more information, contact Adaptable Home Solutions.