As the holidays near, it’s not too soon to check your home for hazards to visitors. Older adults often have impaired balance and vision. This makes them prone to trips and falls, especially in new surroundings. And fragile skin and bones can mean double trouble if someone does take a spill.
Home entry. Early darkness and wet or icy walkways can create a fall risk. Check that outdoor lighting illuminates every step. Make sure stairs have a sturdy handrail and nonslip surfaces.
Living/dining areas.
- Clear the floor! Store away toys, piles of books. Avoid slippery wax floor finishes and tape down or eliminate area rugs. Create wide paths.
- Eliminate extension cords from walking areas or tape them down.
- Be mindful of fire hazards. If you’re plugging in an extra heater, place it at least three feet from anything flammable.
- Review seat height. Seating that is low, angled back, or lacks side arms can pose problems for elders. Add a firm cushion to raise the seat.
Indoor stairs. If your guest must use stairs, make sure they are well lit and without glare or strong shadows. Consider nightlights, and point out where light switches can be found. If the stairs are wooden, consider adding nonslip tape.
Bedroom.
- Install nightlights to light the path to the bathroom. Also provide an easy-to-reach bedside lamp.
- Check bed height. If it’s too high, provide a platform step. If too low, add risers. (Risers are sturdy plastic “cups” that raise each leg of a bed. Also useful for couch or chair.)
Bathroom/kitchen.
- Clear the floor! Remove throw rugs. Ensure pet bowls and toys aren’t underfoot.
- Avoid scald burns. Put red electrical tape on hot water knobs as a reminder to take caution. (Turning the water heater down is no longer recommended because bacteria can breed at lower temperatures.)
- Prevent slipping by placing a large, nonskid mat in tub or shower. A shower chair makes for a safer shower. Check the thrift store or borrow a neighbor’s.
Wondering how to support the aging adults in your life?
Taking time to prepare your home is one way to show the people you love that their well-being matters. As the Roanoke and Lynchburg experts in family caregiving, we at Gentle Shepherd Hospice know how a few simple changes can support having an enjoyable visit, with no trips to the Emergency Room. If you’re unsure how to make a home safer for an older adult, or if you have questions about other ways to support aging family members, we can help. Call us at 1-800-789-0586 (toll-free).