Home Safety for the Elderly. December article

Home Safety for the Elderly Falls are the leading cause of injuries and deaths in the elderly. Home m= odifications allow ageing seniors the ability to remain in their own home sa= fely and comfortably, regardless of limitation, physical disabilities, and a= ge. It is always preferable for seniors to stay at home with modification an= d with caregiver support systems. There are several areas to look at in the h= ome that are of utmost importance to prevent falls and injuries. 1) Bathrooms- bathrooms can be the most dangerous place in the house for the= elderly. Poor balance, decreased muscle mass and bone strength increases th= e chance of fractures especially hip fractures. In the bathroom, all bathmat= s must have a non-slip back, low pile mats only, and should be secured. Non-= slip tiles without shiny surfaces should be installed. Grab bars by the toil= et and in the shower are a must. Toilets should be at a comfortable height, a= raised toilet seat can be installed if needed. A shower bench with the tele= phony hand held shower is necessary to make showering tireless, and frequent= . Walk in tubs can be installed. If there is only a bathtub in the bathroom,= removing the bathtub and installing a curb less shower stall that can accom= modate a shower bench or a wheelchair is very important. Assistance for bath= ing, such as a caregiver is also crucial to help maintain hygiene, skin inte= grity and cleanliness. 2)Kitchens- kitchens should be wheelchair and walker accessible. Sometimes i= t may be necessary to widen the doorway. Knobs can be replaced with lever ha= ndles. Organizing drawers and cooktops to the seniors height is crucial. Sto= ring kitchen pots and pans in easy to reach, and lower cupboards allows the s= enior to maintain some independence. Microwaves should be I don't accessible= height as well. Again, low pile carpets that are safely secured are importa= nt. Always cleaning up any spills or water on the floor prevent slipping. Th= eir favourite foods should be placed at a lower height in the fridge as well= . Having a caregiver help them maintain their independence by cooking together= , and the caregiver making sure that they are eating a healthy balanced diet= daily is important. 3)Living areas in the house, including bedrooms-organizing the house and thr= owing away clutter is a priority. There should not be any papers, magazines,= books, wires on the floors anywhere. Great lighting should be added through= out the entire home and bathrooms. Night lights should be installed. Mobilit= y paths should be clear.handrails along with the hallways, with small chairs= to allow rest periods along the way provides independence. A Lifeline neckl= ace or bracelet ensure his safety and urgent help in case an accident does o= ccur. Portable phones are in portable for the elderly to carry around with t= hem as to avoid running to answer the phone. Baskets added to their walkers a= llow them to carry their important possessions with them at