Due to the growing popularity of in-home care for seniors, its crucial to ensure your loved one is safe. Caregivers should use these tips about safety hazards and adjust the home accordingly.
General Safety
- In addition to lifeline or like system, use a buddy system for daily check-ins to promote socialization and prevent feelings of isolation.
- Keep a fire extinguisher on every floor. Ensure all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have fresh batteries and are in working order.
- Never smoke alone or while in bed.
- Always take your time to rise slowly from a sitting or laying position to find your balance.
- Wear properly fitted shoes or slippers with grips provide walking traction.
- Use a correctly fitted cane or walker.
- Consider removing unnecessary mats and throw rugs.
- Do not wax floors. Clean spills immediately.
- Avoid using ladders and never stand on or use a chair as a ladder.
- Ensure all staircases have adequate lighting with switches at both top and bottom.
- Consider having all indoor and outdoor railings checked for sturdiness.
Bathroom Safety
- Always have a light on in the bathroom at night.
- Consult with an occupational therapist to ensure the bathroom has all recommended bath aids and properly secured railings.
- Skid proof the bathtub and make sure the bathmat has a non-slip bottom.
- Clearly mark hot and cold faucets.
- To avoid burns, turn the hot water heater to 120˚ F or below.
- Try to bathe only when help is available.
Kitchen Safety
- Keep floors clean and uncluttered!
- Keep work areas properly illuminated.
- Clearly indicate “on” and “off” position on appliances with bright bold colors.
- Store sharp knives in a block or rack.
- Store heavier objects at waist level.
- Store hazardous cleaning items away from food and dishes.
- Make sure your refrigerator is cleaned out often and food is rotated correctly.
Medication Safety
- Clearly label and properly store medications.
- Read and reread labels in good lighting to ensure you are taking the right medication.
- Properly dispose of expired or unused medication to avoid mix up.
- Never use another person’s prescription medication or allow others to consume yours.
- Use a mediset to avoid confusion and ensure you are taking the right meds at the right time.
- Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any over the counter drugs.
- Review medication periodically with your doctor or pharmacist.