Safety is very important for everyone no matter what age. However, mature adults have to be more cautious of their environments due to their higher risks of falling. This is important to prevent as such falls can result in hip fractures amongst other injuries. One of the places that need to be a safe environment for all mature adults will be their homes. Thousands of mature adults become seriously injured as a result of falls in their own residences. There are many ways to ensure a safe home for everyone, so here are 4 home safety tips for you and your loved ones.
Declutter the House
This should be a no-brainer. Decluttering the house will need to be the first step in making the house a safe one. Any fall hazards should be kept away and secure any floor mats on the floor. Any cluttered pile should also include newspapers, shoes, and loose clothes. Unwanted furniture should be discarded or donated to charity. Areas designed for walking should be always clear of obstructions and be wide enough for wheelchairs or walkers if needed. Any loose cords should be taped down and kept to the side and use indoor footwear that is non-slip.
Make Your Bathroom Slip-Free
Being one of the most dangerous areas of the house, extra caution should be taken. There are many slipping hazards in the bathroom, hence slip-free bathmats are highly recommended. Installing a higher toilet can also help to prevent falls, along with grab bars. Should your loved ones be wheelchair-bound, ensure that there is sufficient space for the wheelchair to enter the bathroom. Ensure there is also a sturdy waterproof chair in the bathroom for them to use during showers. You should also set the thermostat of the heater to a safe temperature to prevent burns. Walk-in models can also be considered.
Ensure that the House Is Well-Lit
Lighting is also important to keep the house a safe space. It is easy for mature adults to misjudge the depth of dim areas, which may cause them to avoid the areas completely. Ensure that all burnt-out light bulbs are replaced and install new light fixtures where it is possible. Motion detection lighting can also be installed for easier access as your loved ones do not need to search for the light switch. Any dim areas should be brightened either with more lights or brighter lightbulbs.
Consider Installing Safety Equipment
Should your loved ones be well into their golden years, it may be a good time to consider installing safety equipment around the house. From a stairlift to travel from one floor to another to a bed rail, all this safety equipment can make a difference in your loved one’s life. It also can give them back some sense of independence, as it helps them to move about without having people to assist them everywhere. You can also put in place an emergency contact system where your loved ones can call emergency services with just a button.
