How we support clients’ home safety in Dudley and Sandwell

Discover how Home Instead Dudley and Sandwell support client home safety through personalised risk assessments, fall prevention measures, and collaboration with local services

Supporting older adults to live independently and safely at home is at the heart of what we do at Home Instead Dudley and Sandwell. With around one in five people in Dudley aged over 65 – higher than the national average – we understand the importance of creating secure, safe living home environments for our clients. Our proactive approach can help reduce the risk of accidents and provide pe ace of mind for clients and their families.

Personalised safety assessments with Home Instead Dudley and Sandwell

We always conduct personalised environmental assessments in and around the home for every one of our clients. Initially our CQC rated outstanding team in Tipton will visit and take the time to identify any potential hazards and then recommend practical solutions with safety in mind.

Some common adjustments we might suggest include:

– Installing grab bars or mobility aids in bathrooms and stairways.

– Securing loose rugs or cables to prevent trips.

– Improving lighting in dimly lit areas.

– Rearranging furniture to create clear, clutter-free pathways.

By addressing these risks early, we help to minimise the chance of accidents, particularly slips, trips, and falls. 

Why falls are a significant concern for older adults nationally and in our area

Preventing falls is incredibly important. Falls can lead to serious injuries, hospital admission and impact independence and living well at home. Nationally, about 30% of people aged 65 and over experience at least one fall annually, with this figure rising to 50% for those aged 80 and above. In England, falls among individuals aged 65 and over result in approximately 255,000 emergency hospital admissions each year.  In Dudley, the rate of local emergency hospital admissions due to falls in this age group is 2,155 per 100,000 population, while in Sandwell, it stands at 2,222 per 100,000. These statistics highlight the importance of fall prevention measures to ensure the safety and well-being of older adults in our community.

Local partnerships in Dudley and Sandwell for added safety

To further enhance home safety, at Home Instead Dudley and Sandwell we can signpost or make arrangements for mobility aids as well as collaborate with trusted local services:

  • Fire service safe and well checks: We can arrange for the local fire service to visit a client’s home. These checks cover fire safety, home security, and fall prevention, offering expert advice tailored to individual needs.

  • Telecare support: For clients who could benefit from monitoring or falls prevention aids, we can connect families with local telecare services. These services provide devices like alarms and sensors to ensure clients can access help quickly if needed.

Senior man with grey hair and crutches while walking out the door with his carer with black hair guiding and assisting him

Ongoing monitoring and family collaboration

Living well and safely at home is an ongoing commitment. Our local Care Professionals provide care, compassion as well as eyes and ears to monitor our clients and the home environment during every visit. If we spot a new hazard or a problem – such as a faulty appliance or an obstacle – we take direct action, or promptly advise the client and their family and suggest next steps.

To keep families informed and involved, whether living in the area or further away, our local office team is always on hand and communicates regularly through phone calls, care reviews, and our user-friendly Care App. The app allows families to stay updated on their loved one’s care, offering reassurance and peace of mind.

Family members also play a crucial role in maintaining a safe home. Practical steps include:

– Removing clutter from walkways.

– Installing non-slip mats in wet areas like bathrooms.

– Ensuring smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are in working order.

– Checking railings and handrails on stairs.

By working together, we create a supportive environment and network, where our loved ones and older adults can continue to live well at home.

Supporting safe, independent living

“Home Instead provided my mother with care of the highest standards. The love, patience, consideration and care by all the staff concerned was wonderful. I would fully recommend Home Instead to anyone who needs the very best of care whilst enjoying the comfort and security of their own home.” 

Son of client, 5 Star Review, Homecare.co.uk

Senior woman with grey hair and wearing blue shirt sitting while inside her garden and talking to her carer with long black hair both smiling and surrounded by the grass and plants

Contact us

Our whole team at Home Instead Dudley and Sandwell is committed to supporting older adults to live safely and confidently in their own homes. From personalised assessments to ongoing support, we make sure every client has assistance, tools and resources to reduce risks and maintain independence.

If you’d like to learn more about our home care services and our personalised approach to living well at home call our team on 01384 259723 or for job opportunities apply online.