The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shares some startling statistics about seniors and falls. They say that one out of every four people who are aged 65 or older falls every year. Serious injuries occur in one out of every five of those falls. On top of the risk of falls, there are all sorts of other home hazards that jeopardize the safety of seniors living at home. Performing a safety walk-through at your parent’s home will help you to identify any problems that need to be addressed. Below is a checklist to help you get started on improving the safety of your senior parent’s home.

Kitchen Safety.

• Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen in a place that is easy for your parent to reach. Make sure they know how to use it.
• Move frequently used items off of high shelves that require a step-stool to reach. If your parent will be using a step-stool, make sure it is sturdy and has a handrail.
• Clear clutter away from the stovetop, especially any items that may catch fire, such as pot holders or towels.
• Move all electrical appliances away from the sink.

Bathroom Safety

• Place a non-slip mat or strips on the floor of the bathtub or shower.
• Install grab bars near the toilet and bath.
• Make sure there is adequate lighting, and a night light for late-night trips to the bathroom.
• Install a shower seat or bench.

Bedroom Safety.

• Make sure there is a lamp or light switch within reach of the bed. If this isn’t possible, keep a flashlight near the bed.
• Place a phone close to the bed.
• Keep candles and space heaters away from curtains and bedding.
• Make sure the path from the bedroom to the bathroom is well lit.

General Home Safety.

• Make sure smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are in working order. Check and replace batteries regularly.
• Make sure all steps in a staircase are even. Fix steps that are broken.
• Install handrails on both sides of staircases.
• Remove clutter from walkways.
• Make sure cords are placed along walls and out of walkways.
• Provide adequate lighting in staircases and hallways.
• Replace worn and torn carpet.
• Remove throw rugs or use double-sided tape to adhere them to the floor.
• Post emergency numbers near the phone.

If you’re concerned about your parent’s safety, hiring an elder care provider can ease your mind. An elder care provider who visits the house can watch for safety hazards, and correct them or let you know about them. An elder care provider can also help your parent with tasks around the house that may be unsafe for them because of mobility or cognitive issues.

The staff at Home Care Matters is available to talk with you and your family about all of your needs. Home Care Matters is a home care agency providing quality and affordable elder care in Cumming, GA and the surrounding areas. Call (678) 828-2195 for more information.

Source

https://www.ncoa.org/resources/check-for-safety-a-home-fall-prevention-checklist-for-older-adults/

https://www.shieldmysenior.com/home-safety-checklist-for-senior/

https://www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/pubs/english/booklet_eng_desktop-a.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/falls/adultfalls.html

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Valerie Darling

Founder, Owner at Home Care Matters

Valerie was born in Miami, FL and after a few family moves, grew up locally in the Marietta, GA area.Valerie is the oldest of 4 (3 younger brothers).She is married and has one child.Valerie is the Founder, Owner and CEO of Home Care Matters.Valerie’s mom, Dee, is the inspiration and primary driver as the how and why the business was born.Valerie says, “My mom is never far from our thoughts.Mom was an integral part of developing and starting HCM before she passed away.Our goal is to stay true to her memory and continue to honor her with the love, values, and ethics she taught us.”

Valerie has the unique experience with home care as she has experienced it from both ends of the spectrum, as a caregiver and as needing care herself as a cancer survivor. Valerie says, “Taking care of someone you love is a physically, mentally and demanding labor of love.Taking care of my mom was the hardest thing I have ever done. It has given me an insight and perspective not many people understand unless you are doing it or have done it.I loved taking care of my mom.I love helping others take care of their love ones too.And now that I’ve been sick, it’s given me a whole new level of empathy and understanding for those who are sick and need help.”

Valerie’s schedule varies daily, but she loves visiting with our clients, families, caregivers, our network partners and being in the office.Says Valerie, “Every day is different, but I wake up excited about what we do, inspired by our team, clients and caregivers.I strive to be a resource to the community.I love my team and I love what we do every day. I like to think my mom would be proud.”

You can reach Valerie by email (Valerie@homecarematters.com) or in our office (770.965.4004).

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