6 Home Safety Tips for Elderly

Wednesday, April 28th, 2021, 11:01 pm , Posted by MED +

Your home is a place where you should always feel safe. As a senior or someone with mobility issues you face additional challenges to keep your home safe. Fortunately, there are a variety of home safety products aids, and even home modifications that can improve the safety of your home and give you the peace of mind you deserve.

Every room is your home could be a potential risk. The following is a room-to-room safety guide for seniors on how to stay at home safely.

Remove all hazards throughout the house

There are many different hazards that can be found throughout your home. The first thing you need to do is get rid of them. Removing these hazards reduce your risk of falling and other accidents from happening. Here are some tips to remove common hazards:

Declutter your entire home, room by room
Make sure all extension cords are stowed away
Remove any unused or unnecessary furniture
Clean up water and spills immediately
Ensure all floor mats are secured to the floor
Keep your home well lit
Stay on top of cleaning – declutter regularly

Just in case, keep all emergency numbers handy so you can call for help if necessary.

Clear the entry way

Your front enter way (and all entryways in general) needs to be clear of any type of tripping hazards. Keep shoes on a rack, ensure all carpets and mats are properly secured on the floor, and ensure the area is well lit. If you require a walking aid, ensure your cane, walker, or wheelchair can safely fit through the door frames and allow you to maneuver through the rest of the house.

Make sure nothing is cooking in the kitchen

Accessibility is important in the kitchen. You do not want to have to reach too much, especially for larger items or they could be a falling hazard. Store heavier and frequently used items within arms length if possible. Some things you may want to consider to make your kitchen safer are auto shut off switches, having a stepladder or reacher handy to help you access hard to get items.

Make the bathroom a slip free zone

Your bathroom is one of the most dangerous areas of the home. There are a variety of tripping and slipping hazards. From water on the floor to getting in and out of the bath or off the toilet, you need to tread carefully. Improve the safety of the bathroom by using slip free bathmats, installing a higher toilet, and adding grab bars. You could even consider a walk-in tub.

Make your bedroom your safe haven

Your bedroom should be a place of comfort. Its important to make sure you have a clear path in and out of bed. You should have easy access to lights. You could even keep a phone close by just in case you need assistance. If you are increasingly having issues getting in and out of bed, consider installing a grab bar, safety poles, or even a bed rail. Other options include getting an electric or adjustable bed to help you stay comfortable at night and make it easier to get in and out.

Don’t make the stairs an uphill battle

Stairs are a big potential hazard for seniors. Its important to always keep them well lit and free from clutter. Make sure the handrails are study. If you have slippery wood stairs, consider installing a runner or getting them carpeted to give them more grip. If your stairs are becoming increasingly a challenge, consider a stair lift. This will give you peace of mind in knowing you can go up and down without issue.

Get An Estimate For All Home Safety Equipment

MED+ is your number one source for all your home safety needs. Whether you are looking for a grab bar for your bathroom, a stair lift, bed rail or anything else, we are happy to assist you with all your needs. Contact us today to discuss your options. Check out our wide range of products and services on our website.

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