In-Home Safety for Seniors

As we age, our homes may not be as safe as we once thought. Falls and other accidents can happen more frequently, and the consequences can be more severe. That’s why it’s important to take steps to improve in-home safety for seniors. In this article, we’ll cover common hazards and provide tips for creating a safe living environment for seniors.

Security

One of the most important aspects of in-home safety for older adults is security. Unfortunately, seniors are at a higher risk of being victims of crime, making it crucial to take steps to feel safer. From break-ins to home burglary, taking the necessary precautions can help ensure your well-being and peace of mind.

Investing in a home security system can help deter criminals from burglarizing your home. Criminals are less likely to target a home with a visible security system, as it increases the risk of being caught. Security cameras can help identify criminals who have committed crimes on your property, and some security camera plans allow for 24-hour monitoring from a professional service. With the press of a button, you can alert them if you need help and request emergency services.

Security cameras can also be used to monitor the inside of your home, which can be useful if you want to keep an eye on an elderly or bed-bound family member, or even a pet.

In addition to a security system, it is important to have a medical alert system in case of an emergency. This can provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. A medical alert system can be worn as a necklace or bracelet and can be used to call for help in case of a fall or other medical emergency.

It is also important to have a plan in case of a natural disaster. Make sure to have emergency supplies on hand, such as food, water, and medication. Stay informed of local weather alerts and evacuation orders.

Finally, it is important to be aware of your neighborhood and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. Get to know your neighbors and consider forming a neighborhood watch program to keep your community safe.

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Video: In-Home Safety For Seniors

Fire

Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors are essential devices that can save lives in case of a fire. However, they need maintenance to ensure they are working correctly. You should test your smoke detector once a month to make sure it is functioning correctly. Additionally, it is recommended that you clean your smoke detectors or have them cleaned every six months. If your smoke detector is too high up on the ceiling to reach, you can hire a professional to replace and maintain it for you.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide is a deadly, odorless gas that can go undetected by humans. Carbon monoxide detectors are just as important as smoke detectors.

The National Safety Council recommends:

• You install a carbon monoxide detector in the hallway near each separate sleeping area in your home.
• Also, have your furnace and water heater serviced every year.
• Don’t heat your home with a gas stove.

Fire Extinguishers

Having an in-home fire extinguisher can be helpful in case of a small fire, such as a grease fire while cooking. There are in-home fire extinguishers as light as 5 pounds, and some even come in a can that weighs only 2 pounds. However, it is crucial to learn how to use a fire extinguisher before needing it. Remember, safety is always first, so get out of the house if you are in any danger at all.

In conclusion, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers are essential devices that can help keep you and your loved ones safe in case of a fire. Make sure to test and maintain your smoke detectors, install carbon monoxide detectors in your home, and have an in-home fire extinguisher ready in case of a small fire.

Kitchen

The kitchen is a place where many accidents can happen. From fires to cuts, burns, slips, and fall risks, it can be a treacherous place to navigate. However, many precautions can be taken to prevent accidents.

Fires

Cooking comes with an inherent risk of starting a fire. To reduce this risk, it’s better to wear short sleeves while cooking. It’s also essential to have a fire extinguisher in your home and kitchen. Fireballs can also be mounted above your stove/oven, which will self-activate once a flame hits them. Keep fire extinguishers in an easy-access area, and if you are in any danger, get out.

Rugs

Area rugs can be a tripping hazard, so it’s best to have rubber-backed mats instead of area rugs. Be sure area rugs are secure and don’t slip.

Cuts

It is easy to cut yourself in the kitchen, even when being careful. To prevent such painful accidents, consider using cut-resistant gloves. Wire mesh gloves are effective and are required to be worn by butchers and deli workers whenever using knives or machines to cut. Finger guards made of wire mesh material can also be found to prevent cuts, allowing you to slice while having a barrier between your fingers and the knife.

Burns

It is easy to get burned while cooking or baking. To prevent this accident from happening, consider using heat-resistant silicone oven rack shields. They are easy to install by either snapping or sliding on. Silicone mitts that are heat resistant can also help protect from burns and prevent dropping. Oven mitts can be effective, but they can be thin or get holes, exposing your hands to possible burns.

Hot Water Hazard

Installing rubberized water faucet covers for the kitchen sink can help alleviate hot water burns. They are color-coded with red for hot and blue for cold and are easier to grip and turn on and off than traditional ones.

In conclusion, the kitchen can be a dangerous place, but taking precautions can help prevent accidents. By wearing short sleeves, having a fire extinguisher, using rubber-backed mats, using cut-resistant gloves, heat-resistant silicone oven rack shields, silicone mitts, and rubberized water faucet covers, you can make your kitchen a safer place.

Bathroom

The bathroom can be a dangerous place, especially for seniors or those with limited mobility. There are several steps you can take to make your bathroom safer and reduce the risk of falls and other accidents.

Shower/Bath

One of the most significant potential hazards in the bathroom is a shower that requires climbing over a tub wall. This can be especially dangerous when there is water on your feet, making it easy to slip and fall. To reduce this risk, consider installing a low step-in shower or a walk-in shower that has no step-over at all. Another option is to use a transfer bench or shower chair that allows you to sit while washing. If you prefer to soak in a tub, a walk-in jacuzzi tub might be a good option.

Walk-In Jacuzzi Tub

Walk-in jacuzzi tubs are a great option for those who enjoy soaking in a tub but have limited mobility or balance issues. They come in models with just the soak option, as well as models with jacuzzi jets.

Low Step/Walk-In Shower

If you have limited mobility, getting in and out of the shower can be hazardous. Replacing your tub/shower with a low step-in shower or a walk-in shower that has no step-over can make it much easier and safer to get in and out.

Transfer Bench/Shower Chair

If you don’t want to purchase a walk-in shower, a transfer bench or shower chair can be a good option. These allow you to sit outside of the shower and slide over into the shower while still seated. They can also be used to sit while washing, which is helpful if you have balance problems. When done, reverse the process and move your legs up and over the tub to get out.

A shower chair is placed in the shower, but you will still need to be able to get in the shower.  So if you have good balance and no mobility issues, this could be a viable choice for you.

Bath Lift

If you love a bath but find it difficult to get in and out of the tub, a bath lift can be a good option. With a bath lift, you sit on the lift, and it lowers you in and out of the water.

Slip Resistant Shower Stepping Stool

A shower stepping stool is a wide-based stool that adds height and ease to getting in and out of the shower or tub. However, you must be careful as these are slip-resistant, not slip-proof, and you also need mobility to use them as you are still climbing up on the step.

Bath Rails/Grab Rails

Bath grab rails, also known as grab bars, can assist when in the shower and if you have balance issues. They can be used to steady yourself when entering and exiting the tub/shower for a safer experience. If you are going to install grab bars, make sure to get ones that are secured with screws. They do make grab bars that adhere with suction, but it is safer to have them screwed in.

Important: DO NOT use towel racks as a support tool. They aren’t designed to support body weight and may fail if used to do so.

Rubber Mat

One of the least expensive products you can purchase for added shower/tub safety is a rubber mat. Easy to put to use – lay it in the shower; that’s it. Just be careful that it’s secure and slip-proof.

Toilets

Elevated Seat

Sometimes with limited mobility, a toilet that is higher than usual can be such as great aid. Say if you have had knee surgery and have trouble bending your leg, having a raised toilet seat can make it easier and help prevent falls.

Bidet

Another option is a portable bidet.  This will help you clean yourself – useful if you have limited mobility with your arms and reaching.  A bidet sprays warm water to clean and then warm air to dry.

Rails

If you are able to install grab bars by the toilet, they can provide additional safety and security when sitting down or standing up in the bathroom.

Call Button

Having a call button, or medical alert, in the bathroom can provide added safety. If something should happen, such as a slip or fall, or if assistance is needed, having a call button to alert a family member or caregiver can be an excellent accessory to have in the bathroom.

Miscellaneous Bathroom Safety

In addition to the above safety measures, there are a few other things you can do to make your bathroom safer.

• Place electrical appliances and electric cords away from any water source.
• Set the temperature on your water heater to 120 degrees to prevent burns.
• Avoid having portable heaters in your bathroom.

By taking these steps and using the appropriate bathroom safety products, you can significantly reduce the risk of falls and other accidents in your bathroom.

Bedroom

When it comes to a senior’s bedroom, safety should be a top priority. The bedroom should be well lit with good lighting to avoid tripping and falling. Here are some tips to help make a senior’s bedroom safer.

Beds

The bed should be of the appropriate height to prevent falls. According to the Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund, the recommended height for beds is 20-23 inches from the floor, measuring up to the top of the mattress. If the bed is too high or too low, it can increase the risk of falls.

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Bed Rails

Bed rails can serve two functions. They can prevent falling out of bed and can also be used to balance while setting up and getting out of bed. It is important to ensure that bed rails are properly installed and are the correct size for the bed.

Night Lights

Placing night lights in the bedroom to light a pathway can help avoid trips and bumping into furniture in the dark. Motion-sensored night lights that automatically come on when movement is detected are a great option.

To further increase safety, it is important to clear clutter, including electric cords, off the floor so the walking path is wide. It’s also a good idea to remove any throw rugs that can easily be tripped or slipped on.

By following these tips, a senior’s bedroom can be made safer and more comfortable.

Home Safety For Seniors Checklist

Miscellaneous Tips

To ensure your safety, there are some miscellaneous tips you should follow.

• Check for and replace burnt-out light bulbs.
• Discourage the use of space heaters.
• Keep a cell phone nearby when possible.
• Keep a list of emergency phone numbers handy.
• Keep windows and doors locked at all times.
• Make sure light switches are accessible.
• Place light switches at the top and bottom of any stairs.
• Sleep on the ground floor of the home if possible for easy exit.

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FAQs

Additional Reading

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A Wise Investment

In conclusion, in-home safety for the elderly is an important topic that deserves attention and care. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you can create a safe and secure living space that promotes independence and peace of mind. From fall prevention to emergency preparedness, there are many aspects of in-home safety to consider. By taking a proactive approach to your safety, you can enjoy your golden years with confidence and comfort. Remember, your home is your sanctuary, and it should be a place where you feel safe, secure, and happy.

What experiences have you had with your home being unsafe, or measures you have taken to increase your home’s safety? I would love to hear your stories.  Please comment below.

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