June is National Safety Month and as the old saying goes:  An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.  Likewise, taking action to prevent home injuries can help individuals live comfortably and safely in their own homes for many years to come.

While remaining independent in familiar surroundings is ideal, it’s important to evaluate those surroundings, and even adapt them to better accommodate an aging person with potentially decreasing mobility and a higher risk of accident.  There are multiple areas in the home that could potentially be hazardous.  Following are suggestions for avoiding some of these hazards:

Approach to the House – Pathways leading to the house should be clear, even, and free of cracks.  Bushes and plants should be trimmed or removed.  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.

Living Room – Lighting should be adequate and easy to use avoiding lamps that can fall off tables and cords that have to be pulled.  All electrical cords should be out of pathways and doorways to prevent tripping and fire.  Remove excess clutter or furniture that may be in the way.

Kitchen – Any mats in the kitchen should be secured to avoid tripping.  Items frequently used should be placed on the lowest level of cabinets or on the 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 periodically for expiration as older adults may have trouble reading labels and have decreased senses.  A fire extinguisher is essential.

Bathroom - All mats in the bathroom 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.  120 degrees is recommended. 

Bedroom – Drawers and closets should be easily accessible with the most used items within easy reach.  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 of clutter.  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 would like to learn more about home safety or any other caregiver related issue please contact your ElderCare Specialist at 314-802-5106 or email  hobrien@standrews1.com.