At a time when our elderly loved ones will have to spend a great deal of time at home, we may be thinking about different ways we can assist them. Apart from the day to day needs, one area we may want to look at is home safety. How can we ensure their homes are not a safety hazard?
If it is possible, go through the home and assess the areas that are high risk for slips and falls. The bathroom is one of the most common places for this. Is the bathroom equipped with sufficient grab bars and anti-slip mats for both inside and outside of the tub or shower?
The staircase is another area where there is a high risk of slipping and falling. Make sure staircase handrails are sturdy and fitted to either side of the staircase. Stair carpeting should be checked to make sure there are not areas coming loose. Also, if the home has rugs, be sure they have a good rubber backing so that they do not move easily.
Check that corded appliances are not a tripping hazard. Electrical cords that stretch across walk through areas are a real danger and, if they have been covered over with rugs, etc. they also pose a fire risk. Fix these cords up against walls to keep them out of the way. It might be a good idea to have the room arranged so that any electrical appliances are situated close to an outlet.
By looking for ways to reduce the risk of home-related accidents, you will be helping your loved ones stay safe while they are indoors.
If it is possible, go through the home and assess the areas that are high risk for slips and falls. The bathroom is one of the most common places for this. Is the bathroom equipped with sufficient grab bars and anti-slip mats for both inside and outside of the tub or shower?
The staircase is another area where there is a high risk of slipping and falling. Make sure staircase handrails are sturdy and fitted to either side of the staircase. Stair carpeting should be checked to make sure there are not areas coming loose. Also, if the home has rugs, be sure they have a good rubber backing so that they do not move easily.
Check that corded appliances are not a tripping hazard. Electrical cords that stretch across walk through areas are a real danger and, if they have been covered over with rugs, etc. they also pose a fire risk. Fix these cords up against walls to keep them out of the way. It might be a good idea to have the room arranged so that any electrical appliances are situated close to an outlet.
By looking for ways to reduce the risk of home-related accidents, you will be helping your loved ones stay safe while they are indoors.