Senior care providers always work hard to provide a safe, comfortable environment for the elderly. Despite even the best efforts, dangers still lurk in many homes and assisted living facilities.
Here are five dangers you should look for in your home or in the homes of the people you care for …
- Poor
lighting. Poor lighting indoors or outside can cause a fall hazard, as seniors
may have vision problems that reduce visibility even more in poor lighting.
Poor outdoor lighting could make you or someone you love a target for
criminals. Make sure to light hallways, bathrooms, garages, and walkways
brightly.
- Clutter
also causes a fall hazard. Many older people are hesitant to throw things away;
this may cause clutter to build up in walkways. Widen walkways by removing
clutter and excess furniture.
- Throw
rugs can pull your feet right out from under you. Remove throw rugs or tape
them down.
- Bath
and water hazards frequently pose safety issues the
elderly. Burns from scalding water are common, especially among older people
with diabetes who cannot feel the temperature of the water. Slippery floors are
also a hazard. Turn the water heater down to 120 degrees Fahrenheit and use a
shower chair.
- Cooking and fire hazards may pose a risk with older cooks who have shakier hands and shorter attention spans. Monitor cooking to prevent fires and ruined meals.
Contact your local senior care professionals at Always Best Care of Greenville/Spartanburg for more information on how to remain safe in your own home or assisted living apartment.
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