What can you do to guard an elderly parent from getting hurt? Here are some guidelines to follow:
Keep outside stairs and walkways in a safe condition and clear of clutter and debris. Make certain the hand rails are clean and in good condition.
Light up stairways, hallways and provide light switches at both ends. Brighter lights are better.
Use night lights and bedside remote controlled switches. Yeah the clapper will work as well.
Install solid handrails in hallways and stairways.
Keep a solid bed stand by their bed so glasses and additional individual things are close.
Place felt or soft material around pointed corners of furniture for instance tables, shelves or counters.
Secure the edges of carpets and rugs; get rid of throw rugs that can be tripped on.
Keep pathways clear of furniture and other items.
Install handrails in the bathroom (particularly close to the toilet, by the doorway to the shower as well as within the shower) use non-skid strips in the shower and tub.
Use a shower seat and hose for those unable to stand in the shower.
Avoid using oils and lotions in the shower and bathtub.
Utilize kitchen appliances with timers. The elderly find appliances with signal lights and buzzers easier to use.
Clearly mark the off position on stoves and ranges so a person with diminished eyesight can instantly tell if the element is off. You could try some nail polish to indicate the off position.
Set water heater thermostats or faucets so water does not scald their skin.
Install smoke detectors in the kitchen, bedrooms and throughout the rest of the house.
Keep a fire extinguisher handy and know how to use it.
Arrange frequently used kitchen items in an easy-to-reach cabinet.
Install one door lock that can be opened easily from the inside.
Keep magazines and mail picked up off the floor. Seniors love to keep it all, who knows a coupon may show up.
For a complete home assessment contact Care-To-Go at 800-818-0407 and on the web at Care-To-Go.com Are you getting to the point where you need someone to help you shoulder the load of caring for Mom? A Home Care CareGiver will be able to assist your senior with household tasks, personal care, errands and shopping to be sure they are safe happy and well cared for.
Family Health Nutrition medical doctor
Author Resource:
Captain Gable is a freelance writer featuring airline articles as well as Elder Travel and Home Care Articles. For more information see http://care-to-go.com and http://caretogotravel.com
Here are a series of articles and information gathered from 35 years airline experience and over 30 years of family home care caregiver experiences.
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