Home Safety for Elderly – Till Death Do Us Part
“I want to stay in my home till I die.”
This is a statement I’ve heard many times when I meet with elderly people and their families looking for support in the home.
It’s a phrase I completely emphasize and understand. No one does!
In this article, we will look at how can we help elderly folk stay in their home through reducing potential hazards that can lead to a fall.
And as the main carer, you’re probably concerned for home safety and are likely wondering where to start.
There are many ways you can address home safety for elderly people. And by addressing these concerns you give them the best opportunity to live independently at home for as long as possible.
Table of Contents
How to create Home Safety for Elderly
It’s great that you’re taking steps to ensure the safety of your elderly loved one at home. Let’s break down the checklist to make it easier to understand and act upon.
Although, an OT assessment will provide you with a holistic assessment for home safety of both the physical environment and the person’s capacity, there are things that you can do to start that process yourself as the carer.
For starters, you can request a copy of our free tool the “Elderly Home Safety Checklist” (below).
It provides a valuable resource for identifying and addressing potential hazards that may compromise the safety of elderly individuals.
The checklist can help you start addressing them and significantly improve the safety and well-being of your elderly family members.
You can request a copy of our elderly home safety checklist below:
Improving Home Safety: Elderly Home Safety Assessment
The Home Safety Checklist will take you through a series of questions that help you review various areas around the home to identify any issues that may increase risk of falls.
Let’s take a look at some areas:
External Environment:
While the interior of your loved one’s home is crucial, ensuring a safe and accessible exterior environment is equally important. Here’s what to consider:
- Clear and Easy Access: Emergency responders, and if they access home support, they need quick access to the property. Ensure your loved one’s house number is clearly visible from the street, ideally illuminated at night. Keep walkways and driveways free of clutter, allowing for easy ambulance or wheelchair access to the front door.
- Safe Entry: Examine the condition of stairs and walkways leading to the house entrance. Uneven surfaces, cracks, or loose railings can be tripping hazards. Repair any damage and consider installing handrails on both sides of stairs for added support. If your loved one’s home has multiple levels, consider installing an accessible ramp to eliminate the need for stairs altogether.
- Adequate Lighting: Outdoor lighting deters crime and improves nighttime visibility. Install motion-sensor lights near doorways and along walkways to illuminate entry points and alert your loved one to visitors approaching.
Internal Environment:
As we’ve discussed falls are a leading cause of injury for seniors. Here’s how to minimize fall risks within the home:
- Clutter Control: Declutter walkways and living spaces. Remove loose rugs or secure them with double-sided tape to prevent them from slipping. Rearrange furniture to create clear pathways throughout the house.
- Accessibility is Key: Ensure all doors and windows are easy to open and close. Check if internal steps or ramps are well-maintained and have secure handrails.
- Lighting for Safety: Proper lighting is essential to prevent falls. Opt for bright, warm-colored bulbs throughout the house, especially in hallways, stairwells, and bathrooms. Consider installing nightlights along frequently used paths to improve visibility at night.
Bathroom/Toilet:
As we’ve discussed, the most common high risk places to have a fall is in the bathroom. Here’s how to create a safer bathroom environment:
- Grab Bars for Support: Install sturdy grab bars next to the toilet, bathtub, and inside the shower stall. These provide essential support when entering, exiting, and maneuvering within the bathroom.
- Accessible Fixtures: Ensure the toilet seat height is appropriate for your loved one. Consider installing a raised toilet seat with grab bars for added support. Replace traditional shower knobs with easy-to-grip handles.
- Non-Slip Surfaces: Invest in bath mats and shower mats with a non-slip backing to prevent slipping. Consider installing grab bars with a built-in shower seat for added safety.
- Adequate Space and Ventilation: Ensure there’s sufficient space for your loved one to maneuver safely within the bathroom. Proper ventilation is essential to prevent mold and mildew growth, which can cause respiratory problems.
Laundry:
The laundry room, though often overlooked, can pose safety hazards for elderly individuals. Here’s how to create a safe and efficient laundry space:
- Clear and Accessible Space: Maintain a clear and well-lit laundry area. Declutter the floor to prevent tripping hazards. Ensure there’s ample space to maneuver around appliances and laundry baskets.
- Easy-to-Reach Supplies: Store laundry detergent, softener, and other supplies on lower shelves or cabinets for easy access. Consider using single-dose laundry packets to eliminate the risk of spills and over-measuring detergents.
- Functional Appliances: Ensure washing machines and dryers are in good working order. Check hoses and electrical cords for any damage or wear and tear. Invest in front-loading washing machines, which are generally easier to load and unload than traditional top-loading machines.
- Ergonomic Considerations: If your loved one struggles with bending or lifting, consider using a rolling laundry hamper to transport clothes from the hamper to the washing machine. A raised laundry basket can also help reduce strain on the back while sorting laundry.
Kitchen:
The kitchen is the heart of the home, but it can also be a source of safety concerns for seniors. Here’s how to create a kitchen that fosters independence and minimizes risks:
- Organized Workspace: Keep countertops clear and clutter-free to provide ample workspace for meal preparation. Arrange frequently used items within easy reach on lower shelves and cabinets.
- Sharp Object Safety: Store knives and other sharp objects in secure drawers or cabinets with child safety locks. Consider using blunt utensils for everyday tasks like spreading butter or cutting vegetables.
- Appliance Accessibility: Ensure appliances like microwaves, ovens, and toasters are easily accessible and have clear controls. Opt for appliances with large, easy-to-read labels and knobs.
- Lighting for Safety: Maintain proper lighting throughout the kitchen, especially above countertops and the stovetop. Install dimmer switches to allow for adjusting light levels based on the task at hand.
- Non-Slip Flooring: Consider installing non-slip flooring throughout the kitchen to prevent slips and falls. Regularly clean spills to maintain a safe surface.
Bedroom:
The bedroom should be a haven for restful sleep and relaxation. Here’s how to ensure your loved one’s bedroom promotes safety and comfort:
- Appropriate Bed Height: Choose a bed height that allows your loved one to easily get in and out of bed. A higher bed may require a step stool for safe entry and exit.
- Assistive Grab Bars: Install sturdy grab bars on both sides of the bed for added support when getting in and out of bed.
- Nightlight Navigation: Install nightlights along the path from the bedroom to the bathroom to improve nighttime visibility and prevent falls.
- Electrical Blanket Safety: If your loved one uses an electric blanket, ensure it’s in good working order and has an automatic shut-off feature to prevent overheating.
- Clear Floor Space: Maintain clear floor space around the bed and dresser to allow for easy movement with a walker or cane if needed.
Equipment: Choosing the Right Tools for Everyday Tasks
The right equipment can make a world of difference in helping your loved one maintain independence and safety during daily tasks. Here’s a breakdown of essential equipment categories:
Equipment – Cleaning and Ironing:
- Lightweight and Easy-to-Maneuver Vacuum Cleaner: Traditional upright vacuums can be heavy and cumbersome. Consider a lightweight, cordless vacuum cleaner for easier maneuverability.
- Mop with Extendable Handle: A mop with an extendable handle eliminates the need for bending over, reducing strain on the back.
- Long-Handled Dusters: Long-handled dusters allow your loved one to reach high surfaces without needing a stool or ladder.
- Microfiber Cloths: Microfiber cloths clean effectively with minimal cleaning solutions, reducing the risk of spills and chemical exposure.
- Iron with Automatic Shut-Off Feature: An iron with an automatic shut-off feature provides peace of mind, preventing potential burns if left unattended.
Equipment – Seating:
- Comfortable and Supportive Chairs: Choose chairs with good back support and armrests to promote proper posture and ease of standing. Consider chairs with a slightly higher seat height for easier sitting and standing.
- Elevated Toilet Seat: An elevated toilet seat can significantly improve independence in the bathroom by making it easier to sit down and stand up. Look for options with grab bars for added support.
- Shower Chair: A sturdy shower chair provides a safe and comfortable place to sit while showering, reducing the risk of falls.
Equipment – Mobility:
- Canes and Walking Sticks: Canes and walking sticks provide extra support and stability while walking. Choose a cane with the appropriate height and handle type for your loved one’s needs.
- Walkers: Walkers offer greater stability than canes for individuals who require more support. Ensure the walker is properly sized and adjusted for comfortable use.
- Wheelchairs: For individuals with limited mobility, a wheelchair can provide the independence to move around the house safely. Consult a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable wheelchair type.
- Scooters: Electric mobility scooters can offer increased mobility for those who struggle with walking long distances. Ensure your loved one receives proper training on safe scooter operation.
Additional Considerations:
Remember, the specific equipment needs will vary based on your loved one’s physical capabilities and limitations. It’s always best to consult with an occupational therapist for a personalized assessment and guidance on choosing the most suitable equipment to promote safety and independence at home.
Electrical and Gas, Fire and Safety:
Assessing the functionality and safety of mobility support aids, power outlets, and gas appliances is vital. Additionally, precautions should be taken for individuals with dementia, such as isolating gas appliances and appropriately storing portable oxygen.
By addressing these potential safety hazards, we can create a safer living environment for elderly individuals. This may involve making modifications to the home, such as installing handrails, improving lighting, decluttering, and ensuring the functionality of essential equipment. Additionally, utilizing personal falls alarms and ensuring the accessibility and operational status of mobility aids can provide added security.
Regularly reviewing and updating the home safety checklist, as well as seeking professional assessments and recommendations, can further enhance the safety of elderly individuals in their homes. Ultimately, by proactively addressing potential hazards, we can help our elderly loved ones maintain their independence and well-being in a secure and comfortable home environment.
What to do now?
If you haven’t already, sign up to enkel.life life (above) to receive your own elderly home safety checklist.
If you know what you need to do, click on one of the buttons below that can provide you some of the most common ways to address home safety.
Support Aids
There are many ways you can find the right support aids. Check out our recommendations for all equipment:
Walking aids
Supporting aids
Mobility Scooters
Home Modifications
If you found there are home maintenance issues or addtional items needed installed in the home you can access tradesmen and builders to quote these changes for:
Repairs
Install of rails or ramps
Bathroom modifications
Allied Health
Allied Health Providers can complete a more thorough assessment and provide recommendations for home changes, supports aids and plans for reconditioning the body to improve safety. These include Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists.
Final Thoughts: Supporting Their Independence with Love
We understand the deep love and concern you have for your aging loved ones.
Creating a safe and comfortable home environment is a thoughtful and proactive way to support their independence and well-being.
Remember, even small changes can make a significant difference.
Taking these steps doesn’t mean taking away their autonomy – it’s about offering gentle support and peace of mind for everyone involved.
Knowing they are in a safe environment allows them to continue living life to the fullest while giving you the comfort of knowing you’ve done your part. Embrace these changes as a collaborative effort, working together to create a space that fosters both safety and a sense of home.
For additional resources and support, don’t hesitate to explore the helpful links and organizations dedicated to senior care. You are not alone in this journey, and there are countless resources available to assist you in creating a loving and supportive environment for your loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
I’m worried about making changes to my loved one’s home. Will it take away their independence?
Many have shared your concerns. Making changes to their environment can feel intrusive. However, the goal is to support their independence by minimizing safety risks. These modifications allow them to continue living their lives comfortably and confidently, knowing their home is a safe space.
How can I discuss these changes with my loved one in a respectful way?
Collaboration is key. Approach the conversation with empathy and understanding. Listen to their concerns and preferences. Frame the changes as a way to enhance their safety and well-being while allowing them to maintain their autonomy as much as possible. Emphasize you’re wanting to help maintain their independence to staying living in their home.
Where can I find additional resources and support?
You are not alone in this journey! Numerous resources and organizations are dedicated to supporting caregivers and seniors. The article mentions exploring helpful links and contacting organizations specializing in senior care. You might want to check out Embracing Carers for more information.
Additionally, you can search online or ask your doctor for recommendations.
What are some additional ways I can support my loved one’s independence?
Beyond creating a safe home environment, here are some additional ways to support your loved one’s independence:
Encourage their continued engagement in activities they enjoy.
Respect their choices and decisions whenever possible.
Offer support and assistance when needed, but avoid taking over completely.
Communicate openly and honestly, fostering trust and understanding
How can I take care of myself while caring for my loved one?
Caring for a loved one can be demanding. Remember to prioritize your own well-being as well. Make time for activities you enjoy, seek support from others, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.
By taking care of yourself, you’ll be better equipped to care for your loved one with love and compassion.