At Golden Heart Senior Care we hear every day about how much Seniors want to stay at home as opposed to living with family members or in a facility for Seniors. Safety is always a big concern, and there are ways to adapt the home to create a more safe environment. One of the simplest is to utilize a “safety checklist” provided by Golden Heart to walk through the home and locate those areas that could be improved upon to increase safety. This is a service we provide free of charge to all of our Home Care clients, and we find that we are able to reduce the risk for falls and other related accidents considerably. Getting in and out of the tub or shower is another huge safety issue, and there are various adaptations that can be made to augment safety and reduce accidents in that area. A simple thing like eliminating extension cords and loose throw rugs is surprisingly effective in reducing fall risks for Seniors, and even increaing the level of light in darker parts of the home is a huge help
Safety is also important in taking proper medications at the precribed times in thecorrect doses, and providing an automated device with the capability of dispensing medications with an alarm to remind the client is extremely important.
Finally, having a companion to oversee the day to day routine and monitor nutrition, medications, and household safety is the ultimate in assuring that the Senior who chooses to remain at home lives comfortably and safely in the environment he or she prefers.
By Sherri Kumle
Great posting about safety. That is a key component in keeping a loved one at home. I think an elderly peron will naturally feel safer in their own home but even more so when a companion is there to assist. Very helpful article! Thank you.
Thank you, Tamekia! I am so happy to hear that you found our information about Senior Safety to be helpful. You are so right….the elderly often lose confidence when they are alone, and we often see that their ability to function independently declines more rapidly due to lack of confidence and loneliness. Having a “buddy” to be there for them is a real boost and it also gives the family members peace of mind. Stay tuned for more great ideas about helping Seniors stay at home safely and happily!
Sherri Kumle, Executive Director
Golden Heart Senior Care of Ohio
I always look forward to your posts. Great information. I check in weekly on your site.