Following on from my post last year about safety tips for the elderly in winter last year, today I wanted to talk about how the elderly can be safer in their homes, particularly when living alone.
This is a subject that I often ponder; particularly as I have a 76 year old mother myself who is thankfully mobile, independent and very capable of looking after herself. But this is not always the case, particularly when people get to 80 and above and are living alone.
There are many things that can be done for an elderly family member to live safely on their own by just making some small changes to their home, and by putting routines in place that can keep them independent and not feeling reliant on their family. This can mean so much as many elderly people would do anything to avoid being a burden.
There are many things that can be done for an elderly family member to live safely on their own by just making some small changes to their home, and by putting routines in place that can keep them independent and not feeling reliant on their family. This can mean so much as many elderly people would do anything to avoid being a burden.
Safety Proof Your Home
Six out of ten falls occur in the home. Our home is our safe space and we rarely think about the dangers of falling. Ensure that all floor surfaces are non slip, perhaps putting matting in strategic places if you do not want to go to the expense of changing your flooring (but tape them down so that they are secure). Any wiring should be tired away and keep away from the floor surface.
One hazardous area for falls, particularly when you are elderly is the bathroom. One idea would be to put safety bars in next to the toilet and the shower. Many homes have a bath which is precarious to get out of at the best of times, let alone when you are elderly, perhaps unsure on your feet and have the challenge of climbing out of a bath.
How about looking at a wet room cost? Having a one level room with perhaps a seat in the shower could be invaluable.
Share Your Keys
When my mum is home alone, she always locks the door to the house, which is important for security. But if your relative is living alone and has a fall, it is imperative that you and the emergency services if needed can gain access. I would recommend giving a copy of the house key to at least three people as many have busy lives and do not always have access to their phone at the right time. An alternative would be to have a lock box outside of your door, with your family and your local doctor being given the code.
Check in with People
As I have said earlier in this post, the last thing that elderly people want to be is a burden. But a simple call from a relative each day, even to just say hello is so beneficial; particularly if they worry about calling you as they don't want to bother you.
Interaction with fellow neighbours is also important and can be a great mutual support system. We have a neighbour who needs a little extra help and I know that the visits my mum pays her make all the difference.
Create an "All Weather" Kit
As we all know, we can never rely on the weather in the UK. One day it is sunny, the next we could have four inches of snow. A good idea in the winter months would be to stock up on tins, make sure that there is a working flashlight and that medication is kept in good stock.
Medication
Many elderly people have to take a plethora of pills every day. A list kept in the kitchen or somewhere easily accessible of all medication that they are taking is important to ensure that they do not run out and thereby preventing any emergency trips to the pharmacy.
I hope that these tips and ideas have been helpful. Our elderly relatives are often though that have looked after us throughout our childhoods and these small tips and ideas can go a long way in ensuring that they can maintain a happy, safe and independent life in their twilight years.
*Collaborative post
