As our parents age, it’s only natural that we want to do everything we can to help them stay safe and healthy. Here are five simple things shared by a guest writer you can do to help your elderly parents be safer at home:
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5 Ways You Can Help Your Elderly Parents Be Safer At Home
Install Grab Bars And Handrails:
One of the most important things you can do to help your elderly parents be safe at home is to install grab bars and handrails in strategic places around the house. For example, grab bars can be placed in the bathroom near the toilet and shower, and handrails can be installed on staircases and next to steps. This will give your parents something to hold onto so they don’t lose their balance and fall. Oh, and making sure they have a fall detection device with them, just in case the worst happens, is sensible too.
Walkways and Stairs Clear of Clutter:
It’s important to ensure that your parents’ walkways and stairs are clear of any clutter that could cause them to trip. This includes things like magazines, shoes, clothing, toys, etc. Anything that could potentially trip them up should be moved out of the way so they can move around safely. Additionally, ensure that any throw rugs or other floor coverings are secure and not likely to slip or bunch up. Another hazard to look out for is electrical cords. Ensure all cords are either taped down or tucked away so they don’t present a tripping hazard.
Restock Their Medicine Cabinet Regularly:
Another way to help your elderly parents be safe at home is to ensure their medicine cabinet is always stocked with the prescription and over-the-counter medications they need. This way, if they start to feel ill, they won’t have to go out to the pharmacy in search of relief. You should also check the expiration dates on their medications regularly and throw away any that are out of date. In addition, it’s a good idea to keep track of the medications your parents are taking so you can be aware of any potential interactions.
Have Everything They Need Within Reach:
As we age, it becomes more difficult to move around our living spaces. That’s why organizing your parents’ living space is important, so everything they need is within reach. This includes putting frequently used items like cups, plates, silverware, and large button remote controls within arm’s reach, so they don’t have to strain themselves attempting to reach them.
Have An Emergency Plan:
Lastly, you should make sure your elderly parents have a way to contact you in case of an emergency. This could be as simple as giving them your phone number or syncing their phone with yours so they can call or text you if they need help. You could also get them an emergency alarm that they can push a button to immediately get in touch with you or emergency services if they fall or have another type of accident.
Hire a professional caregiver
This is particularly helpful if you have a tight schedule. Caregivers are excellent if your parents decide to age in-house but require assistance with their daily activities. Indeed, these professionals can also offer companionship, helping your parents avoid loneliness and depression. Moreover, caregiver services can be personalized to suit their needs and preferences. When selecting one, ensure they come from a reputable organization and are experienced.
You should also ascertain that they can cater to your parents to deliver independent living support that is specific to their needs and limitations, preventing them from sustaining injuries.
However, you may need to work with a personal injury lawyer BDIW Law if an accident occurs due to the caregiver’s negligence.
Review your parents’ needs
The risk of health issues increases as you age, which means that it’s beneficial to review your parents’ needs regularly. Monitor how they are getting on at home, communicate openly with them, and look out for warning signs or changes in their health. You might need to alter the environment to make it safer or more accessible, or you may need to explore options to cater to new or developing conditions or symptoms. If you start to notice that your dad is forgetting things more than usual, for example, you may need to think about hiring carers with medical expertise and experience or looking around facilities that specialize in memory care. It’s wise to be prepared for a deterioration in your parents’ health as they get older, even though this is a subject many of us don’t like to talk or think about. Having a frank, honest chat with your parents about their care preferences is helpful. If you know what they want, you can make decisions as a family unit, which respect their wishes.
Conclusion:
Taking steps to ensure your elderly parents’ safety doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. By following these five simple tips, you can help them live a happy, healthy, and safe life at home for years to come.