Many adults prefer to remain in their homes as long as possible as they age. This is possible by providing an array of community-based services and making minor changes to their homes. Sometimes, however, the actual home that an older adult is living in can bring its own challenges, and changes need to happen if the older adult can safely remain in the home.
A recent study shows that most older adults want to stay in their own homes. As people age, mobility and response time slows down a bit and minor safety hazards around the house can become more significant. Taking a few basic home safety measures and making home modifications can go a long way toward making a home safe and comfortable. A common misconception is that home modifications and safety measures are extremely expensive and difficult to accomplish, but that is not always the case. While every senior will have different challenges and concerns, here are some tips to reduce home hazards and to make home modifications that can make a safer home for an older adult.
As people age and have more issues with their vision, this can lead to falls and, ultimately, serious injury. Good lighting makes a home feel warm and welcoming, and adds an element of safety. Well-lit hallways are easier to navigate. Rooms with balanced lighting make hazards easier to see and avoid. Installing a smart light system that allows the lights to turn on automatically when a person enters a room can led to fewer accidents. This motion-sensor technology has been around for several years and is a simple solution to help reduce falls within the home.
If you have ever been in a hospital setting, you have seen stability (grab) bars in the bathrooms and showers. The bathroom, and especially the shower, are the most common places in the home for a fall to occur. Have grab bars installed in the shower and near the toilet to make getting around easier and safer. Installing these bars in the bathroom and shower can reduce the risk of falls immensely. Due to a combination of slick surface, soap and running water, it makes sense that this could be problematic for an older adult with balance issues. Installing a shower bench can allow a senior to bathe safely in a seated position instead of standing. Use a bathmat with a non-skid rubber backing when getting out of a shower.
It’s important to keep a list of emergency numbers by each phone. Write this information in large enough print so that you can read it easily. The list should include 911, phone numbers of family members, friends or neighbors, and the number for health care providers, for a good start. Carry a cordless phone or let an answering machine pick up to reduce trying to answer the phone quickly.
Eliminate as many fall hazards as possible by making sure hallways, stairs, and paths are well lit and clear of objects. Use rails and banisters when going up and down the stairs. Remove scatter rugs and tape all area rugs to the floor so they do not move when you walk on them. Use a cane or walker instead of holding onto walls and furniture. Wear non-slip footwear, such as slippers with rubber or no-slip bottoms, or flat, thin-soled shoes that fit well.
Fire prevention starts with working smoke detectors in the kitchen, bedrooms and near appliances. The batteries should be changed twice a year and tested regularly. Replace appliances that have fraying or damaged electrical cords. Never smoke in bed or leave candles burning, even for a short time, in an empty room. Make sure space heaters are at least three feet away from anything that can burn, such as curtains, bedding or furniture. Turn off space heaters when you leave the room. In the bathroom, check the water’s temperature, which should be at or below 120 degrees, so if the hot water is turned on without mixing with cold, it won’t result in a scald or burn. Making minor changes and small renovations can allow older adults to remain safely in their homes.