National Home Safety and Awareness Month

Safety for our clients who live independently is a priority for CareAparent. It’s important to understand and recognize healthy aging includes being aware of safety risks in the home and taking measures to prevent falls or accidents. Home safety or potential hazards sometimes go unnoticed as you or your loved one ages, particularly if the condition has been in your home for a long time.

Below is a list of recommendations for safe, independent home living.

Bathroom:

Install grab bars on the walls around the toilet, shower/bathtub for stabilization.
If needed, install a raised toilet or toilet seat with armrests for easy use.
Adding a slip-resistant rug on the floor outside of the shower for entry and exit of bathtub/shower can secure the rugs so it does not move or cause tripping.
Insert nonskid, textured, adhesive strips to the bathtub/shower floor for grip.
Adding a shower bench that can provide stability while showering and bathing.

Living Room & Hallways:

Ensure lights and dim areas within the home are well-lit.
Stairs should have secured railings with proper lighting to assist with visibility.
Clear main walkways from clutter or furniture in each room to prevent potential falls.
Secure all carpet edges to avoid a tripping hazard.
Repair areas with uneven flooring.

Kitchen:

Be careful not to clean the floor with wax or anything that would cause a slippery floor.
Place all essential items in easy to reach places and do not use step stools, step ladders, or chairs to reach things on high shelves.
Mark stove controls so “off-on” settings are clear.
If something spills, wipe it up right away (even small ones).

Bedroom:

Ensure there is a light within reach of your bed in case you get up in the middle of the night.
Keep eyeglasses nearby or within reach for easy access when you go to bed at night.
Place a working flashlight on the bedside table for quick accessibility to a light.
Keep a phone or emergency call device charged and by the bedside for quick access in case of an emergency.

Yard and Garage:

Ensure entrances and pavements are clear of snow and ice during winter months.
When parking, check the surroundings for space to get in and out of the vehicle safely.
Keep an eye out for patches of possible slippery spots on the garage floor.
If there are stairs in the garage, add handrails for stability.

Pets:

Be aware of the pet’s location to avoid tripping over them.
Watch for pet toys that could cause trips.

Footwear:

Make sure to wear shoes that fit properly and have non-slip soles.
Try to avoid wearing socks or shoes that have slippery soles

Resources:
National Council on Aging: Fall Prevention
Center of Disease Control and Prevention: Stand Up to Falls

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