Blog on caregiver, cleaning and health care related matters.
Oct-16-2023 | aging in place, Caregiver Service, Companion Caregiver, In Home Care, in home care assistance, Senior Care Services,
Many seniors prefer to live independently in their own homes for the comfort, satisfaction of familiarity and self-reliance; however, this can also pose some risks and challenges. To ensure their safety and comfort in their home, here are 58 ways that can help seniors stay safe in their homes:
– Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors on every floor and test them regularly.
– Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and other areas where fires may occur.
– Avoid using candles, matches, or lighters near flammable materials or curtains.
– Replace frayed or damaged cords and plugs of electrical appliances and devices.
– Use surge protectors and avoid overloading outlets or extension cords.
– Turn off appliances and devices when not in use or before going to bed.
– Keep a flashlight and extra batteries in an accessible location in case of a power outage.
– Install grab bars and non-slip mats in the bathroom, especially near the bathtub, shower, and toilet.
– Use a shower chair or bench if standing for long periods is difficult or risky.
– Adjust the water heater temperature to prevent scalding or burns.
– Keep medications in their original containers and store them in a cool, dry, and secure place.
– Dispose of expired or unused medications properly and safely.
– Follow the instructions and dosages of your medications and supplements carefully and consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns.
– Use a pill organizer or dispenser to help you remember when to take your medications and supplements.
– Keep a list of your medications, allergies, medical conditions, and emergency contacts in your wallet or purse and on your refrigerator door.
– Wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace if you have a chronic or serious condition that may require immediate attention.
– Keep a first aid kit stocked with bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and other essentials in an accessible location.
– Seek medical attention promptly if you experience any signs or symptoms of a stroke, heart attack, infection, or other serious condition.
– Schedule regular check-ups and screenings with your doctor and dentist and follow their recommendations for preventive care and treatment.
– Get vaccinated against seasonal flu, pneumonia, shingles, COVID-19, and other diseases that may affect seniors more severely.
– Eat a balanced and nutritious diet that meets your dietary needs and preferences.
– Drink plenty of water and fluids to stay hydrated and avoid dehydration.
– Limit your intake of alcohol, caffeine, salt, sugar, and processed foods that may affect your blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, or weight.
– Take vitamin D and calcium supplements to support your bone health and prevent osteoporosis.
– Exercise regularly to maintain your strength, flexibility, balance, and endurance. Choose activities that you enjoy and are suitable for your fitness level and abilities.
– Consult your doctor before starting a new exercise program or changing your existing one.
– Warm up before exercising and cool down after exercising to prevent injuries or soreness.
– Wear appropriate clothing, footwear, and equipment when exercising.
– Avoid exercising outdoors when the weather is too hot, cold, humid, or polluted.
– Stay indoors or seek shade when the UV index is high to prevent sunburns or skin cancer.
– Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and protective clothing when exposed to the sun.
– Avoid smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke that may increase your risk of lung cancer, COPD, heart disease, stroke, and other conditions.
– Manage your stress levels by practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, tai chi, or massage.
– Seek professional help if you experience any signs or symptoms of depression, anxiety, dementia, or other mental health issues.
– Stay socially connected with your family, friends, neighbors, community groups, clubs, or organizations that share your interests and hobbies.
– Use technology such as phone calls, video calls, emails, text messages, social media, or online platforms to communicate with your loved ones and access information and services.
– Learn new skills or pursue new hobbies that challenge your mind and keep you engaged and stimulated.
– Play games or do puzzles that improve your memory, concentration, logic, or creativity.
– Read books or magazines that expand your knowledge or entertain you.
– Watch movies or shows that make you laugh or inspire you.
– Listen to music or podcasts that soothe you or motivate you.
– Keep a journal or diary that helps you express your thoughts and feelings.
– Volunteer for a cause or organization that aligns with your values and passions.
– Adopt a pet or plant that provides you with companionship and responsibility.
– Review your finances and budget and plan for your future needs and goals.
– Seek advice from a financial planner, lawyer, or accountant if you need help with managing your money, assets, or taxes.
– Update your will and estate plan and inform your family or beneficiaries of your wishes.
– Review your insurance policies and coverage and make any changes or adjustments as needed.
– Declutter your home and belongings and donate, sell, or discard anything that you no longer need or use.
– Organize your home and belongings and label, store, or display them in a way that makes them easy to find and access.
– Make your home more accessible and comfortable by installing ramps, rails, lifts, or other devices that help you move around or reach things.
– Make your home more energy-efficient and eco-friendly by using LED bulbs, smart thermostats, solar panels, or other products that reduce your electricity consumption or carbon footprint.
– Make your home more secure and safe by installing locks, alarms, cameras, or other systems that deter intruders or alert you of any threats.
– Hire a professional or ask a friend or family member to help you with any home repairs, maintenance, or improvement projects that you cannot do yourself.
– Consider hiring a caregiver, housekeeper, gardener, chef, homemaker or companion or other service provider to help you with any personal care, household chores, or other tasks that you need assistance with.
– Consider using a delivery service, online shopping, or curbside pickup to order groceries, meals, medications, or other items that you need or want.
– Consider using public transportation, ride-sharing, or taxi services to get around if you do not drive or have a car.
– Consider joining a senior center, assisted living facility, or retirement community if you need more social interaction, support, or care.
This is an extensive list to ensure the safety of seniors in their home, some of which may have already been utilized however there are additions help to enhance the safety of our loved ones. Please call Polish Care Services for in home care assistance for seniors.