What May Not Be An Obstacle To You May Be To Your Elder Loved One.
The next time you visit an elder loved one, take a few minutes to make sure that their home is suited to the mobility and agility limitations we can all experience as we age.
Take A Walk Through The House
* Keep all areas of the house, including hallways and stairs, well-lit.
*Remove scatter rugs, or attach a non-skid backing to them.
*Reduce the risk of falling by making sure floors are not slippery.
*Use night lights in the bedroom, hallways, kitchen, and bathrooms.
*Keep the stove area in the kitchen free of towels, paper towels, and napkins.
*Remove all newspapers and magazines from the kitchen counter area.
*Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen, and teach everyone how to use it.
*Inspect electrical cords for fraying or cracking; be sure they are placed away from walking.
*Make sure electrical cords are placed away from walking paths, but not under carpet or furniture.
*Set the hot water temperature at 115 degrees or below on the water heater.
*Use slip-resistant decals or non-skid mats in the tub or shower.
*Install grab bars in the bathtub and by the toilet that are securely anchored into the wall studs.
*Check to be sure that extension cords are not overloaded and are clear of walkways.
*Install smoke detectors on every floor of the home and test them.
*Destroy out-of-date medications and those which are no longer being used.
*Place a telephone in the bedroom and post emergency numbers by all telephones.
*Keep space heaters away from flammable materials, and be sure the room is well ventilated.
*A three-pronged plug should be used in a three hole outlet, or an adapter should be used.
*Always turn off heating pads before an older person goes to sleep.
*Have an emergency exit plan and an alternative plan in case of fire.
Talk With Your Loved Ones About Any Safety Issues
After walking through the home of your loved ones, you should discuss with them any safety issues you found in their home. If you have questions about how to make the home of an elderly loved one safer, please contact us today.
Visiting Angels® Can Help!
Here in the Tampa Bay area of Florida, let us demonstrate that Visiting Angels is "America's Choice In Home Care!" If you would like to set up a free no-obligation assessment for your loved one, or just want to speak with one of our friendly and knowledgeable Angels, just give us a call at 813-909-2550, or, 727-841-8440. If you prefer, you can send us an email at wecare@visitingangelstampabay.com and we'll get right back to you.
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