Overlooked Safety Measures for Aging Parents at Home: A Nurse's Perspective
May 15, 2024As a nurse with years of experience in eldercare, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges families face when it comes to ensuring the safety of aging parents at home. While many safety measures may seem obvious, there are often overlooked aspects that can make a significant difference in preventing accidents and promoting independence.
If you’re caring for an aging parent, here are safety considerations you may not have considered! Let’s dive in!
Fire Safety
Many overlook the increased fire risk associated with aging, such as forgetfulness in turning off stoves or impaired hearing that might not alert them to smoke alarms. An obvious answer is to install smoke detectors in every room including bedrooms, and change batteries regularly. Consider smart smoke detectors that send alerts to smartphones. TalkElder likes The Nest system, it is a little pricey but has tons of convenient features; smoke, carbon monoxide, night light, and it gives alerts to your phone if something is going on at your parents home.
Now, here are a couple overlooked fire hazards. If candles are something your parents use to keep the house smelling nice, possibly switch to an alternative like a wax warmer. Same candle smells…no open flame. TalkElder likes these two options and they are also on an automatic shut off which is an added bonus.
Another overlooked fire hazard is space heaters, as we get older we get colder and some people lean toward the use of space heaters. Wearing comfy, warm clothes is a better alternative. Oprah and my 74-year old mom have made this fashionable cozy set their go to lounging “uniform”. You can use the link below to purchase a set. Also, having an easy-to-throw-on comfortable sweater, a heavy bathrobe, sturdy warm slippers, good socks, and easily accessible warm blankets are great options to keep you warm and safe.
Bathroom Safety
The bathroom is full of safety hazards, and we have discussed the common safety measures in past blogs like; installing grab bars, using a shower seat and keeping the bathroom floor clutter-free. However, some overlooked hazards can be equally dangerous. You know those cute bathroom mats that we all have; make sure they have good grip and don’t slide around. Another is bathroom water temperature, to prevent accidental scalding, make sure the thermostat on the water heater is no higher than 120° F.
Medication Management
TalkElder has discussed the importance of having updated medication lists and ensuring the right pills are taken at the right time. An overlooked danger is proper storage of medications to prevent accidental overdose, if there is any question that medications are being taken improperly, locking dangerous medications up and distributing them appropriately is a must. Here is a lockbox I have used which is very simple and affordable.
Pro Tip: Ask your pharmacist to print your parent's prescription labels in large print to prevent taking them incorrectly due to vision issues.
Home Security
Unfortunately, seniors can be increasingly vulnerable to intruders and scams. Install secure locks on doors and windows, and consider a security system with features like video surveillance and remote monitoring. TalkElder clients use RING video surveillance, it is affordable, easy to install and there is a wide variety of camera and motion sensor options for both inside and outside protection.
Regular Home Maintenance
Something that is often overlooked until an emergency happens. Home maintenance! Over time, homes can deteriorate, leading to safety hazards like faulty electrical wiring or plumbing leaks, which can lead to detrimental damage and lengthy repairs. Also, having large appliances regularly maintained, like hot water heaters, air conditioning units, furnaces, washers, and dryers, can prevent costly and dangerous safety issues. Schedule regular home maintenance checks and address any potential issues promptly. If possible, build a relationship with a licensed and insured handyman that you can trust in emergencies to assist with quick fixes and maintenance when necessary.
While these safety measures may seem small individually, collectively, they can make a significant difference in the well-being and safety of aging parents at home. By addressing these often-overlooked aspects, you can create a safer and more supportive environment that promotes independence and peace of mind for both you and your loved one.
Remember...
WE'VE GOT THIS!
