As the number of older adults living independently continues to rise, ensuring their safety at home becomes increasingly important. Falls, burns, poisonings, and criminal activities targeting older individuals are among the most common accidents they face. Whether you're an older adult living alone or caring for someone who does, implementing these safety measures is crucial for maintaining a secure living environment.
- Maintain a list of emergency numbers near each phone.
- Write the information in large print for easy readability during emergencies.
- Include important numbers such as: yours and 911.
- Consult your healthcare provider for a special falls risk assessment if you experience difficulty with walking, balance issues, or have fallen within the past year.
- Inquire about exercise programs that can help prevent falls.
- Consider investing in a wearable alarm device, such as a bracelet or necklace, which can be used to call emergency services if you fall and cannot reach a phone.
- Avoid rushing to answer the phone; use a cordless or cell phone or rely on an answering machine instead.
- Wear non-slip footwear like slippers with rubber/no-slip bottoms or flat, thin-soled shoes when walking on smooth floors.
- Utilize a cane or walker consistently instead of relying on walls or furniture for support.
- Ensure that hallways, stairs, and paths are well-lit and free from obstacles like books or shoes.
- Use handrails and banisters when ascending or descending stairs, and avoid placing scatter rugs at the top or bottom of stairs.
- Securely tape down area rugs to prevent them from moving while walking.
- Protect against fire and related hazards:
- In the event of a fire, leave immediately and call 911; do not attempt to extinguish it.
- Familiarize yourself with at least two exit routes from your home or apartment.
- Avoid wearing loose clothes or long sleeves while cooking.
- Replace appliances with fraying or damaged electrical cords.
- Be cautious not to overload sockets or extension cords.
- Install smoke detectors and replace their batteries semi-annually.
- Never smoke in bed or leave candles burning unattended, even for short periods.
- Maintain a safe distance of at least 3 feet between heaters and flammable objects like curtains, bedding, or furniture. Turn off space heaters when leaving the room.
- Set the water heater thermostat to a maximum of 120°F to prevent scalding.
- Install grab bars in the shower and near the toilet for increased stability and safety.
- Place rubber mats in the bathtub to prevent slipping.
- Request assistance from your healthcare provider in obtaining special equipment like a tub chair, bench, or raised toilet seat if you experience difficulty getting in and out of the tub or on and off the toilet.
- Never attempt to heat your home using the stove, oven, or grill, as they emit carbon monoxide—a deadly, odorless gas.
- Install carbon monoxide detectors near all bedrooms and test and replace their batteries twice a year.
- Keep medications in their original containers to avoid mixing them up.
- Request large-print labels from your pharmacist for easier readability.
- Take medications in well-lit rooms to clearly see the labels.
- Bring all pill bottles to healthcare appointments for review and to ensure proper usage.
- Never mix bleach, ammonia, or other cleaning liquids, as their combination can produce dangerous gases.
- Keep windows and doors locked at all times.
- Refrain from allowing strangers into your home when you are alone.
- Consult a friend or family member before responding to offers from telephone salespeople.
Creating a safe living space is of utmost importance for older adults who live independently. By following the provided home safety tips, they can minimize the risk of accidents and protect themselves from potential hazards. It is crucial to keep emergency numbers readily accessible, prioritize fall prevention measures, ensure a well-lit and clutter-free home environment, take precautions against fire and related dangers, address bathroom safety concerns, prevent poisoning incidents, and be vigilant against potential abuse. By incorporating these safety practices into daily routines, older adults can enjoy greater peace of mind and maintain their independence for longer. Remember, prioritizing home safety is an ongoing process that requires regular assessment and adjustments to ensure a secure living environment.