Taking care of loved ones as they get older can be an overwhelming responsibility. It is impossible to keep someone else safe all the time, but you are trying to get it to work. Plus, the uncertainty that goes with every decision can't help either. When it comes to making a home safer for your aging loved ones, there are many aspects to be covered. This list will help ensure you don't miss a thing.
Here's what you need to know to keep potential accidents at bay.
Reduce the risk of falling
One of the main causes of older accidents and injuries is falls. While you may not notice or be bothered by the clutter in your home, you will be surprised how much some things can affect your loved ones. For starters, extension cords and loose wires Don't mix well with seniors, whether they can walk or use wheelchairs. Carpets are also a tripping hazard, especially if they're so old that their corners curl up. Tight corners and areas can also be a problem. So make sure there is always room for free movement. Remember, rushing around the house is not recommended for the elderly. However, you can ensure that this does not happen. So make sure you go around the house and remove anything that could be a potential hazard.
Check the electrical appliances
Unfortunately, the device may malfunction at any time, which can also be very dangerous. Carefully examine all equipment in the home to avoid electrical fires, electric shock, and other potential hazards. Repair anything that isn't working properly and replace those that recently regularly failed to function properly. Make sure you cover any exposed wires as well. If you can replace some devices with devices that automatically turn off while you work, you're doing them a great favor. After all, anyone can leave the kettle on long after the drink is made, and the likelihood that this will happen increases with age.
Improve bathroom safety
Bathrooms are another danger zone for the elderly for several reasons. If you are trying to make the house safer for them, pay attention to the bathroom first. First, keep your thermostat a few degrees below 48 ° C to avoid accidental burns. It is also important that you install Grab bars in the bathroom to provide stability and support to your elderly. This is a great way to prevent loved ones from sliding in or out of the tub in the shower or on the way. Other options worth considering include bath chairs, walk-in showers, and handlebars near toilets. In addition to rubber mats and grab bars, these can potentially save your life and make your way to the bathroom a lot easier.
Install motion-activated lighting
If you are already having a hard time walking and your vision is poor, the nightly walk to the light switch every time you want to go to the bathroom can be a rather dangerous journey. It is a good idea to have one installed motion activated light or even a couple of them, especially in the bathroom. As the name suggests, the lights are activated when they perceive movement that guarantees safe entry and exit of a room without the fear of an invisible obstacle. It's an especially good idea for anyone who gets up a lot in the middle of the night.
Store everything within reach
If you want to prevent potential accidents, you need to know and eliminate the conditions that can contribute to them. A common type of accident, be it a fall or a head injury, occurs when a senior is trying to accomplish something that is far beyond their reach. The object itself could fall on them or they could lose their balance. To prevent this from happening, keep everything within reach so that they don't have to make extra efforts and endanger themselves. In other words, opt for low cabinets and drawers instead of hanging cabinets and cabinets.
As you walk around your loved one's home and take notes of anything that needs to be changed, make sure you take their needs into account. Make sure the changes you make are based on needs and preferences as you are trying to make life easier for them. Include their views on what they think should be changed, what is harder for them to do, and what would make their life easier. You may not want to disturb them or make them helpless, but trust that it will help both you and them to take on their contributions.
