Home safety for the elderly

The majority of elderly people, when they need extra help, wish to remain in their own home environment. Family and friends can help them achieve this, and where that's not quite enough, professional home care nurses can play a role. But once the decision to do this has been made then the issue of home safety for the elderly must be addressed.

So what is home safety for the elderly? It's really just a way of safety proofing the living areas of the house, to avoid unnecessary accidents, and to give the elderly person and carers extra piece of mind.

It needn't be expensive and with a little forethought and effort an elderly person's home can be made much more safe and secure.

Carpets. To prevent the elderly person from slipping or tripping up all carpets and rugs should be pinned or taped securely to the ground

Staircases. If the elderly person is able to walk upstairs it will help if handrails are placed on either side. If mobility is a problem then the family should think about installing a chairlift. These needn't be expensive and can offer an elderly person mobility and more independence, particularly if the bathroom and bedroom is upstairs.

Kitchens. Kitchens can be hazardous to young able-bodied people, so can provide a minefield of potential accidents for the elderly. Make sure all kitchen appliances are in good working order, and there are no loose wires hanging. Replace old worn out appliances as they may be dangerous. Keep cup and plates, and all other appliances at a good, reachable height, so an elderly person doesn't have to stretch or climb on things to get at them, and always make sure the lighting is good in the kitchen.

Smoke Detector. Make sure there is a smoke detector and it has new batteries. It's also a good idea to fit carbon monoxide detectors if it's possible. If an elderly person has hearing or smell dysfunction these two items could be literally life-saving devices for them.

Bathroom. The bathroom is another potentially hazardous area for elderly people. Again, make sure that mats and rugs are secure. The toilet should be at a height the person can reach easily and there should be grab bars on either side. Likewise there should be grab bars in the bath and shower, so the person doesn't have to struggle to get in or out.

These are just a few of the things you can do to safety proof an elderly persons home. Home safety for the elderly has to be your number one priority if your loved one wishes to remain in their own home. As we've discussed, it needed be too expensive or even time consuming to cover the basics. If the elderly person is living completely alone, or has more urgent medical needs then, of course, more care and attention will have to be taken. But with a little forethought and planning friends, family and care workers can all come together to make a home as accident proof as is possible.

Ana Nursing - Find 24 Hour Care, Home Nursing and Residential Care Homes London for the Quality Disabled and Elderly in London, UK. Dementia, Live in Care, Nursing and Respite Care Homes in London, UK. For more information please visit:- http://www.ana-nursing.co.uk/

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