Aging in Place

Safely & Responsibly

As we age, our homes should continue to be a sanctuary of comfort and safety. However, the reality is that many homes are not equipped to meet the evolving needs of seniors. With over one in four adults aged 65 and older experiencing a fall each year, it’s crucial to address potential hazards and make necessary modifications. This article is for those who have chosen to “Aging in Place,” and will detail the requirements for doing so safely and responsibly. more one best article senior pain.

While researching this option of ‘Aging in Place’, we encountered an article on the website of the National Council on Aging (NCOA), focusing on home safety for elders who choose ‘Aging In-Place’ which we reviewed. 

This article stands out in terms of being authoritative, and comprehensive, yet detailed, and to the point. Since the major challenge of ‘Aging-In-Place’ is by far the issue of Home Safety, a direct read of this article is recommended.

Therefore, to maximize the benefit for our readers regarding the issue of ‘Aging In-Place’, we recommend that you visit the NCOA.Org website and that you read the entire article entitled ‘Home Safety for Older Adults; A Comprehensive Guide’ by Miranda M. Riva, Esq at https://www.ncoa.org/adviser/sleep/home-safety-older-adults/

The following is a brief summarized overview of this article, for your convenience:

Home Safety for Older Adults: Key Tips for Aging in Place

As we age, it’s essential to ensure our homes remain safe, secure, and comfortable. Here’s a condensed guide to making your home a safer environment, particularly focusing on products that can help.

Preventing Falls

Falls are a significant risk for seniors, with 28.7% of adults over 65 reporting a fall each year, and 60% of these falls occur at home. To minimize fall risks:

• Install handrails and ramps: Ensure easy access to entryways.
• Use motion detection lights: Illuminate steps and walkways to prevent falls at night.
• Add non-slip treads or carpets on stairs: to reduce the risk of slipping.
• Wear non-slip footwear: Comfortable slippers with rubber soles can prevent falls.
• Remove trip hazards: Replace throw rugs with low-profile vinyl rugs.

Emergency Assistance

Having systems in place for emergencies is crucial:

• Medical alert systems: Wearable devices with a help button can connect to a 24/7 monitoring center.
• Emergency phone tree: Establish a list of contacts to alert in case of an emergency.
• Home security systems: Protect against theft and allow communication with visitors without opening the door.

Enhancing Accessibility

Ensure all areas of the home are easily accessible:

• Install handrails: Along walkways and stairways for added support.
• Electric Stair Lifts: For disability or ease of access in multi-story dwellings.
• Replace doorknobs and handles: Use D-handles for easier gripping.
• Organize daily items: Keep frequently used items within easy reach to avoid unnecessary bending or stretching.
• Adjust lighting: Use LED light strips and motion-detection lights to improve visibility.

Bathroom Safety

Bathrooms are high-risk areas for falls:

• Grab bars: Install near the toilet and in the shower or tub.
• Non-slip mats: Use in the shower and around the bathing area.
• Raised toilet seats: Easier to get on and off.
• Walk-in tubs: A safer option for bathing, especially for those with mobility issues.

Kitchen Safety

Prevent accidents in the kitchen:

• Check appliances and detectors: Ensure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working.
• Use cut-resistant gloves: Protect hands when using knives.
• Rubberized cutting boards: Prevent slipping while chopping food.

Living Area and Bedroom Safety

Keep living spaces and bedrooms clutter-free:

• Organize furniture: Ensure clear walkways and remove low-level tables.
• Adjust bed height: Make it easy to get in and out of bed.
• Secure pets: Be aware of pets’ movements to avoid tripping.

Recommended Products for Aging in Place:

• Non-slip footwear: Comfortable slippers with good traction.
• Medical alert systems: Devices with fall detection and emergency alerts.
• Home security systems: Systems with cameras and communication features.
• Handrails and grab bars: For bathrooms, stairs, and walkways.
• Electric Stair Lifts: For disability or ease of access in multi-story dwellings.
• Walk-in tubs: For safe and comfortable bathing.
• LED light strips and motion-detection lights: Improve visibility and safety.
• Cut-resistant gloves and rubberized cutting boards: Enhance kitchen safety.

By making these modifications and using the right products, seniors can significantly reduce risks and enjoy a safer, more comfortable home environment. Investing in these safety measures not only protects against accidents but also promotes independence and peace of mind for older adults.

Finally, the National Directory of Home Modification and Repair Resources (https://homemods.org/national-directory/) is a useful website when looking for qualified local professionals and services that can modify or renovate your home.

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