How to Create a Safe Environment at Home
Creating a safe home environment for seniors is essential for reducing risks, especially falls and accidents, while promoting independence. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
The Kitchen
- Organise Shelves: Put frequently used items like dishes and pots at an easy height—no reaching up high or bending down.
- Non-Slip Mats: Place non-slip mats near the sink and stove to avoid slipping on wet floors.
- Stove Safety: Add stove guards or automatic shut-offs to prevent accidents. Make sure appliances are within reach and work properly.
- Bright Lights: Install lights under cabinets to make cooking areas brighter.
- Fire Safety: Keep a fire extinguisher handy and check that smoke detectors work.
The Living Room
- Clear Walkways: Move furniture and clutter to make paths clear for easy movement.
- Sturdy Furniture: Choose furniture that’s strong and stable. Avoid low, soft couches or chairs that are hard to get out of.
- Tidy Cords: Make sure electrical cords are tucked away so no one trips.
- Good Lighting: Use bright lamps and make sure light switches are easy to reach. Consider using remote-controlled or smart lights.
- Secure Rugs: Remove rugs if possible, or make sure they are stuck to the floor with non-slip pads.
The Bathroom
- Grab Bars: Install grab bars by the toilet, tub, and shower to help with balance.
- Non-Slip Mats: Place non-slip mats inside the tub and outside the shower to avoid slipping.
- Raised Toilet Seat: A higher toilet seat with handles can make sitting down and standing up easier.
- Walk-In Shower or Tub: Consider getting a walk-in shower or tub so you don’t have to step over high edges.
- Shower Chair and Handheld Showerhead: A shower chair allows you to sit while washing. A handheld showerhead makes bathing easier.
- Safe Water Temperature: Set the water heater to no higher than 44 degree celsius to prevent burns.
The Bedroom
- Bed Height: Ensure the bed is at a comfortable height, so getting in and out is easy. Add bed rails or a grab bar if needed.
- Nightstand: Keep a sturdy table near the bed with a phone, flashlight, water, and glasses within easy reach.
- Nightlights: Use nightlights in the bedroom and hallway to light the way to the bathroom at night.
- Clear Floors: Keep the area around the bed free of clutter and cords.
- Emergency System: Consider installing a fall detection or emergency alert system for extra security.
The Hallway
- Clear Paths: Remove any furniture or clutter from hallways.
- Handrails: Install handrails along the hallways and stairs for support.
- Lighting: Add bright lights in the hallways. Motion-sensor lights are helpful, especially at night.
- Well-Lit Stairs: Ensure stairways are well-lit with light switches at both the top and bottom.
- Non-Slip Rugs: If you use rugs, make sure they’re non-slip or secured to the floor.
The Garden
- Clear Pathways: Keep garden paths clear of debris, tools, or plants to prevent tripping.
- Non-Slip Surfaces: Use non-slip materials for outdoor walkways to improve traction, especially when wet.
- Sturdy Seating: Provide comfortable, stable seating areas where seniors can rest while gardening or enjoying the outdoors.
- Adequate Lighting: Install lights along garden paths or near seating areas for visibility during the evening.
- Gardening Tools: Provide lightweight, ergonomic gardening tools to make gardening easier and reduce strain.
