Home Safety for Seniors: What You Need to Know
Feeling safe in your own home is important. For seniors, the concept of safety takes on an entirely different dimension as their mobility, lifestyle, and needs change. Daily living activities such as climbing stairs, cleaning, cooking, and even bathing may become more difficult—or even dangerous.
Especially given the large number of seniors who prefer to age in place rather than enter an assisted living facility or retirement community, ensuring home safety for elderly individuals is crucial. Fortunately, not all home modifications for seniors are exceptionally arduous or expensive, but they do require some forethought and effort.
Modifications to each person's home will be different based on their individual situation and needs. However, the following elderly home safety checklist will give you a list of ideas to get started:
Fall Proof Your Home. Falling can pose a major health risk to seniors, many of whom are more likely to suffer serious injuries such as a broken hip, or may not have the strength to get up again on their own. In addition to fall proofing your home by removing potential falling hazards (such as loose rugs, slippery floors, and poorly-lit staircases), consider getting a medical alert device so that if you or your loved one does fall, they can easily call for help.
Be Security-Conscious. Unfortunately, seniors present a vulnerable target to criminals, both for violent crimes and fraud. Keep windows and doors locked, and consider installing digital safety features such as an alarm system or doorbell camera. Further, protect yourself or your loved one against scams or financial abuse by installing call screening systems and reviewing the importance of never releasing personal information over the phone or allowing yourself to be pressured into making a purchase.
Keep Communication Lines Open. One of the best things you can do to keep yourself or your loved one safe is to maintain regular communication on both sides. Keep a cell phone charged and nearby at all times, and make sure that important numbers are printed and posted in an easy-to-see place. Consider also establishing a regular check-in habit. That way, if you or your loved one misses a call or doesn't reply to a text, it’s more likely to be noticed and they’ll receive help sooner.
Keeping yourself or your loved one safe can be a hard job, but you don't have to do it alone. PACE of Southwest Michigan's innovative philosophy focuses on providing care to seniors in their own homes and communities, thereby allowing them to maintain their comfort, independence, and dignity. PACE takes a holistic, all-inclusive approach to care that combines interdisciplinary healthcare, social support, spiritual care, and more. If you or someone you know is struggling to have their care needs met, check your eligibility or contact us to explore your options.