Did you know that in the state of New York, over 750,000 older adults suffered a fall in 2020? That represents over 25% of older adults who live in the state.
It’s tough, watching our parents age. And the worry never seems to stop. While you juggle work and family, now, you need to add a parent’s well-being into the mix. Time feels scarce. Maybe money’s starting to feel tight. And you may be feeling emotional strain, too. It’s a lot to deal with, but you are not alone.
Home safety becomes a huge concern, especially when you have a parent who needs your support.
You want to protect them, and you want them to be comfortable. But where do you even start? Here are some safety measures recommended by 1st responders that can help safeguard your parent’s home.
Fall Prevention:
Clear Pathways. Remove Clutter.
Clutter is a major fall hazard. A clear path allows for safe movement, especially at night. Remove loose objects, cords, and furniture that could cause tripping. Make sure frequently used areas are free of obstacles.
Secure Rugs. Use Non-slip Mats.
Loose rugs are a common cause of falls. Use non-slip rug pads or double-sided tape to secure them to the floor. Replace worn-out rugs that have frayed edges or holes. Consider removing small, unsecured rugs altogether.
Brighten the Home
Poor lighting increases the risk of falls. Install brighter light bulbs and add nightlights in hallways, bathrooms, and bedrooms. And make sure light switches are easily accessible. Motion-activated lights can also add convenience and safety.
Grab Bars and Assistive Devices
Grab bars in bathrooms and near stairs provide stability and support. Encourage the use of canes or walkers if needed. These should be properly fitted and maintained. First responders see the difference these small changes make in preventing serious injuries.
Fire Safety
Test Smoke Detectors Regularly
Working smoke detectors save lives. Have them tested them monthly and, make sure batteries are replaced annually, or more often if needed. They should install smoke detectors on every level of the home and inside each bedroom. Consider interconnected smoke detectors that sound an alarm throughout the house when one is triggered.
Kitchen Safety
Never leave cooking unattended, especially on stovetops. Be sure to store flammable materials away from stoves and other heat sources. Use timers to remind you when food is cooking. Ensure pot handles are turned inward to prevent accidental spills.
Check Electrical Cords
Damaged electrical cords can cause fires. Have a handy man inspect cords regularly for fraying, cuts, or exposed wires so they can replace damaged cords immediately. Avoid overloading outlets and extension cords. First responders say that most home fires are preventable by taking these safety precautions.
Fire Extinguisher
A fire extinguisher should be readily available in the kitchen and other high-risk areas. Parents and caregivers should know how and when to use it. Consider taking a fire safety course to learn how to properly operate a fire extinguisher. Prevention is the first step in keeping everyone safe.
Medication and Chemical Safety
Proper Storage
Leave medications in original, labeled containers. Store them in a cool, dry place away from children and pets. Regularly check expiration dates and discard any that have expired. A well-organized medicine cabinet can prevent medication errors and keep pills easily identifiable should the need arise.
Medication Lists
Write down a current list of all medications, including dosages and frequencies. Share this list with doctors and caregivers. This helps prevent harmful drug interactions and ensures proper medication management.
Chemical Safety
Store chemicals and cleaning supplies in locked cabinets, out of reach of grandchildren and confused individuals. Label all containers clearly. Keep the poison control number handy. Accidental poisonings can be prevented with proper storage and labeling.
Emergency Preparedness
Emergency Contact List
Create a list of emergency contacts, including family members, doctors, and neighbors. Keep it visible and updated. Include important medical information, such as allergies and medical conditions. Post the list near the phone and in other prominent locations.
First Aid Kit
A first aid kit should be well-stocked and easily accessible. When everyone knows where to find the kit and how to use it, people will be safer. Be sure to check the kit on a regular basis and replenish supplies when stock gets low.
Evacuation Plan
Develop an evacuation plan and practice it regularly. Discuss emergency procedures for fires, medical emergencies, and natural disasters. Ensure everyone understands what to do and where to go in case of an emergency. Practicing the plan helps reduce panic and ensures everyone knows what to do.
Konvoy Can Help
In the journey of caring for our aging relatives, maintaining home safety is critical and cannot be overstated. It’s about being proactive, creating a plan, and sometimes, seeking the right help.
Consider scheduling a meeting with Konvoy to learn more about how our safety check-ins help families in the Westchester, New York area. Together, we can find the perfect solution for keeping your parents safe and in their homes. Their safety and your peace of mind is worth it!
