Safety is usually at the top of the list for caregivers and for good reason. There are so many different ways that your senior’s home can be unsafe for her. It’s a good idea to take a few minutes and go through each room in the house assessing these main areas of concern.
Lights and Lamps
Lighting is extremely important and yet incredibly easy to overlook. It might go without saying that being able to see is what’s going to help your elderly family member to avoid the most obstacles in her home. But her current lighting and lamps might not be enough. Look into adding lighting or increasing the strength of the bulbs she’s currently got installed.
Staircases and Single Steps
If your senior’s home has a staircase, you probably already know that it can be dangerous. But single steps or areas with two or three steps can be just as dangerous. Look into ways to make those areas safer, if you can. Adding handrails and making sure that the steps are less likely to be easy to slip on is vital. Consider bigger solutions, like a stair lift, for a full staircase if that’s an option.
Shower Stalls and Tubs
Your senior’s bathroom might need some safety help, too. Water makes everything much more slippery and that means making sure your elderly family member can get into and out of her tub or shower stall safely. Handrails are an easy way to do this, but you also need to examine her flooring. Adding a rug with a non-slip backing can be helpful. It might also be time to consider a new tub or shower stall with either a low threshold or that features a walk-in option.
Carpeting and Other Flooring
Your senior’s floor can help or hinder her progress through her home. Check for anything that could be a tripping hazard, like clutter, and then make sure that the floor itself doesn’t create a problem. Area rugs need to be taped or have a non-slip backing or padding. Check carpets for worn spots that can catch your senior’s foot as she walks through. Avoid using any cleaning products on bare floors that cause them to feel slick.
If your senior also has mobility problems, having home care providers available can be a tremendous way to assist her. They can help her to navigate safely in her home and help with other tasks, too.
IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING HOMECARE IN ANKENY, IA, FOR A SENIOR LOVED ONE, CONTACT GOLDEN HEART SENIOR CARE OF DES MOINES, IA AT 515-631-5033. OUR CARING STAFF CAN ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS!