Home Safety Tips for Older Adults
Ensuring a safe living environment for older adults is crucial for promoting independence and well-being.
As we age, taking steps to prevent common hazards in the home can reduce the risk of injury, improve quality of life and remain at home. Here are some practical safety tips to help older adults stay secure and comfortable at home.
Fall Prevention
Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults, but many can be avoided with simple adjustments.
Install grab bars and handrails: Place these in high-risk areas like bathrooms, stairs, entrances and hallways to provide extra support.
Remove tripping hazards: Clear pathways of clutter, secure loose rugs with non-slip backing, and ensure electrical cords are tucked away to avoid trips. In bathrooms and kitchens, non-slip mats can provide extra safety on potentially slippery floors.
Improve lighting: Adequate lighting reduces the risk of trips and falls, particularly in areas like stairs, hallways, and entryways. Motion-sensor lights can be really useful at night.
Bathroom Safety
The bathroom can be one of the most dangerous areas in the home due to slippery surfaces.
Non-slip mats and grab bars: Placing non-slip mats in the bath or shower and adding grab bars around the toilet and shower can make these areas much safer.
Shower chairs and handheld showers: These are helpful for older adults with mobility issues, allowing them to bathe more safely while seated.
Raised toilet seats: These can make sitting and standing easier for those with limited mobility, reducing strain on joints.
Fire and Carbon Monoxide Safety
Older adults may have slower reaction times or mobility limitations that make them more vulnerable in the event of a fire or carbon monoxide leak.
Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Ensure these are installed throughout the home, particularly in sleeping areas. Test the alarms regularly and change the batteries as needed.
Plan emergency exits: Create a clear and accessible emergency exit plan, making sure it’s easy to follow in case of fire. Avoid using portable heaters, which can be a fire hazard, and opt for safer heating solutions like central heating.
Home Security
Older adults may be more vulnerable to scams and break-ins, so improving home security is essential.
Install door chains, peepholes, and security alarms: These simple measures help older adults monitor who is at the door and prevent unwanted access. Doorbell cameras can also be helpful.
Stay cautious of scams: Advise older adults to be wary of giving personal details over the phone or online. Many local councils offer information on how to spot and avoid scams targeting older adults.
Medication Management
Managing multiple medications can become challenging as we age.
Medication organisers and reminders: Dosette boxes with compartments for each day of the week can help older adults stay on top of their medication schedule, reducing the risk of missed doses or overdoses. Digital and visual reminders on phones or tablets can also be useful.
Store medications safely: Ensure medications are stored out of reach of children and pets, and check expiration dates regularly.
Regular Maintenance
Keeping the home well-maintained can prevent accidents.
Check for hazards: Regularly inspect the home for loose floorboards, worn-out carpets, and uneven steps, which can increase the risk of falls.
Electrical safety: Frayed wiring or outdated electrical systems can pose a fire risk. Overloading extension leads and multiple plugs. Consider having an electrician inspect the home every few years.
Garden safety: For those with a garden, keep pathways clear of debris, and ensure that outdoor steps are well-lit and even to prevent falls.
Emergency Preparedness
Staying connected to a support network is important for older adults living alone.
Personal alarms: Wearing personal alarms, which allow you to call for help in an emergency by pressing a button.
Support: Local organisations offer befriending services and other support for older adults. Maintaining regular contact with friends, family, or neighbours ensures someone can check in if needed.
By implementing these home safety tips, older adults can reduce the risk of accidents and continue living comfortably and independently in their own homes.
