Helping Seniors Stay Active and Safe at Home

Where are seniors most likely to have accidents while in their homes?

Kitchen?

Bathroom?

Stairs?

The answer is on the stairs, according to most safety experts. Tamara Kato of Comfort Keepers in Arcadia, California enjoys helping seniors live productive lives in their homes.

She says use light sensitive night lights in unlit stairwells and hallways. Make sure railings on the steps are secure and use non-slip surfaces on stairs to prevent feet sliding, especially while wearing slippers.

This list that Tamara provided can guide you indoors and outdoors to help senior family members live productive, active lives at home -- and stay safe:

OUTDOORS

·         Paint porches with grit to prevent slips

·         Railings need regular inspections for sturdiness on porches and steps

• Consider replacing steps with a ramp for use with wheelchairs. Allow several feet for the ramp to slope gradually.

LIVING ROOMS

·         Remove extension cords, throw rugs and other tripping hazards

·         Use light sensitive night lights in unlit stairwells and hallways.

·         Place light switches at doors to prevent walking in the dark.

·         Install smoke alarms in every room and test the batteries regularly.

KITCHENS

If a family member has dementia or memory loss, then use heating elements that shut off such as electric burners on the stove.

·         Keep fire extinguishers handy.

·         Only use sturdy step stools with handles and use poles for reaching.

·         Keep vents free from grease buildup.

BATHROOMS

• Modify baths with tub cutaways when necessary.
• Properly install approved grab bars.
• Raise toilets to assist in sitting and standing.

·         Apply non-slip strips to bathtubs.

·         Use shower seats with back and portable shower heads.

·         Paint with contrasting colors.

Most handyman services can affordably provide any of the upgrades. Check with your church or local community center for reputable, word-of-mouth referrals. Better yet, gather family members or neighbors if possible and make it a group project with a cook-out after.

CRIME PREVENTION

·         Keep doors and windows locked. Use peep holes. Never open your door automatically.

·         Notify neighbors and the police when going away on a trip.

·         Never leave notes on your front door.

·         Be suspicious of offers from unknown contractors to do home repairs. Only work with reputable businesses.

Underwriters Laboratories reports that up to one million people over age 65 were treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries associated with using everyday, household items.

Tamara Kato emphasizes another area of senior safety – taking medications correctly. Maybe not a surprise but, 33% of all hospitalizations of people age 65 and older are taking medications improperly. Don’t hesitate or feel embarrassed to ask for help in reading labels or being reminded on the correct dosages.

"A safety checklist is helpful to follow. But having a quality relationship with someone who works with them on a daily basis, helps the senior feel empowered, and helps to maintain their cognitive skills to avoid accidents is even better," says Tamara. "Seniors may have family members who are too far away or have to work, or have to care for their own children, which means they're unable to spend the amount of time needed with the senior on a daily basis.

"Even if there is a family member in the home, there are risks of accidents if the family member is tired or not trained to look for safety risks. Most seniors fear losing control or being placed in a nursing home, so they might understate problems or health risks. Last, but not least, seniors need compassionate companionship. Having a caregiver who prompts conversations and joins in everyday tasks is stimulating and can be fun."

There is also a range of non-medical services and products that can help a senior not only remain in their home but stay active and satisfied.