If you have aging loved ones who are still living alone, you may wonder what you can do to keep them as safe as possible in their own home. Numerous hazards exist in the home for people with limited mobility, so in this blog, we are going to look at a couple of adjustments you can make to lower their risk of accident and injury.
If the house has a staircase, you will want to pay particular attention to it, as many serious injuries can occur from falling down the stairs. Handrails should be fitted securely to both sides of the staircase, and there should be good lighting both on the stairs and all around it so that each step is clearly visible. Check that carpets are not loose anywhere. Also, if the stairs are wooden, make sure they are not overly polished.
Another high-risk area is the bathroom. You should ensure that there are plenty of grab bars installed around the bathroom and inside the shower or tub. You will also need to place anti-slip mats around the bathroom and tub as well.
Corded electrical appliances can become a tripping hazard, not to mention present a fire risk. Make sure there are no electrical cords underneath rugs or stretching across high-traffic areas. You may even need to rearrange some furniture in a room so that any electrical appliances are situated next to an outlet.
Yes, with just a few simple adjustments, you can help ensure that your precious older ones remain safe while at home.