June is National Safety Month
June is National Safety Month This is the perfect time for St. Andrew’s Senior Solutions to remind our clients that taking preventative measures can go a long way in keeping older loved ones safe and independent at home. Simple modifications in the home may be necessary to more safely accommodate an older adult’s decrease in mobility and increased risk for accidents or injury. We encourage our family caregivers to do regular safety inspections and to pay special attention to certain areas of the home:
-
Approach to the House – Pathways leading to the house should be clear, even, and free of cracks. The area should be well lit. Handrails on both sides of the steps are preferable. Installing a ramp may be an option. Doormats should be skid proof and flush to the ground.
-
Kitchen – Any mats in the kitchen should be secured to avoid tripping. Items frequently used should be on the lowest level of cabinets or on counter tops. Step stools can be dangerous, but if one must be used it should by sturdy, with non-slip steps and a hand rail. Foods should be checked for expiration. A fire extinguisher is essential.
-
Bathroom - All mats should be skid proof and secured. Hand rails on both sides of the toilet and in the shower or bathtub area can prevent falls. Use of non-slip decals in the bath or shower and a bath bench is also helpful. The water heater should be set at a low temperature to avoid burns.
-
Living Room – Lighting should be adequate and easy to use. All electrical cords should be out of pathways and doorways. Remove excess clutter or furniture that may be in the way
-
Bedroom – Drawers and closets should be easily accessible. Slippers should have skid proof soles. Area rugs and obstacles should be removed. A nightlight should be placed in the pathway to the bathroom and this pathway should be clear. Consider a bedside commode for older adults with mobility issues. A cordless phone should be at the bedside.
-
Basement – The basement should be avoided when possible. Handrails should be placed on both sides of the stairs with adequate lighting and skid proof strips on the steps
If you have concerns about your loved one’s home, organizations such as St. Andrew’s Senior Solutions can conduct a safety assessment and provide you with professional recommendations. Call your ElderCare Specialist today if you would like to discuss resources and assistance available in your area.
This is also a good time to discuss summer safety as heat-related illness can be a very serious problem, especially among older adults. Health concerns – or just the normal physiological changes of aging – may make it difficult for older people to handle high temperatures. If you come across anyone whom you suspect is suffering from a heat stroke dial 911 and blanket the victim with damp sheets.
There are a number of factors that are critical to preventing heat-related problems in older adults. The first is education, including being aware of the potential problems than can contribute to heat-related illness. Many older people are alone and vulnerable. Make certain your older neighbors and family members are being cared for, including access to adequate fluids and food. If they don't have air conditioning, offer to take them to a place that has a cool environment, such as a shopping mall or senior center.
If you would like further information about summer safety or cooling centers in your area, contact your Eldercare Specialist at 314-802-5106, toll free 1-888-388-1930 or hobrien@standrews1.com.