Think Home, Think Safety

By Laura Dillon
Program Coordinator
Saint Francis Home Care Services, Inc.

On average, one out of every three adults over the age of 65 falls each year. With this statistic, it is no wonder that for many, the mere thought of falling and hurting themselves can be scary and stressful. Even the most active seniors can feel inhibited enough by this fear that they hesitate to meet friends for lunch or even walk to the mailbox. The thought of having to leave our own home for a stay at a rehabilitation facility or nursing home is often unbearable.
With this in mind, we try our best to ensure our safety when we leave the home (bringing our walking aides, wearing proper footwear, etc.) On the other hand, we often either overlook the potential safety hazards within our own homes, or think “I have no time to change that.” But as Spring arrives, so does a chance to do some spring cleaning. This may be just the time to reevaluate how safe our homes really are, and to make changes if necessary. Whether you are a senior, a caregiver, or both, here are some tips on how to create a safer home for you or your loved one:

Have adequate lighting when walking through rooms or hallways and when going up and down stairs. Use a night light in the bedroom and bathroom.
Remove scatter rugs and/or use slip resistant rugs.
Repair, replace or remove worn carpeting.
Keep frequently used items on shelves or in cabinets at waist level. Use a reacher for high or low items.
Sit at the bedside a few minutes before standing. Stand at bedside a while before walking.
Keep pathways clear. Remove low-lying objects from walkway including extension cords and telephone wires.
Use a bedside commode if walking to the bathroom is difficult, especially during the night. Use a tub seat and/or install tub/shower grab bars in bathing areas for better stability.
Use stable chairs with armrests for seating.
Use non-skid strips or rubber mats in the bottom of the tub.
Use well fitting close-back shoes/slippers with non-skid soles.
Use walking aide as instructed.
Do not overload electrical outlets. Do not use cords which are cracked or frayed.
Wear glasses and hearing aids if necessary.

No matter how hard we try, however, accidents do happen. If an accident or fall does occur, then it is beneficial for your loved one to have either a cordless phone with emergency telephone numbers easily accessible, or a Lifeline (personal emergency response system) with them at all times. Wearing a Lifeline is a good safety precaution to take, even in the safest of homes. For a free consultation on how Lifeline could help you or someone you love stay safe at home, contact Laura at Saint Francis Home Care Services, Inc. at 845-483-5528 or ldillon@sfhhc.org. Remember, Saint Francis Home Care Services, Inc. is here to help.