Use these 25 senior safety tips to keep your elderly loved one out of the emergency room.
Senior Safety In The Home
Wear a medical alert
Install hand rails along walls where needed
Don’t stand on ladders or chairs
Avoid stairs if possible
Make sure hallways and doorways are free of clutter
Make sure lighting is adequate, even bright
Don’t use throw rugs and make sure bathroom rugs are tacked down
Make sure all smoke detectors are in good working order
Don’t open the door to strangers
Senior Safety On Your Person
Wear comfortable shoes with low heels and non-slip soles
Make sure loosely worn clothing won’t catch on furniture or stove handles
Use a walking aid when needed, even if you’d rather not
Sit and stand up slowly, especially after lying down
Concentrate on balance
Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration
Eat regularly to maintain constant blood sugar levels
Review medications with family and doctor on a regular basis
Know your medications’ possible interactions and side effects and be aware of these symptoms
Monitor for possible signs of urinary tract infections
Senior Safety In Your Bathroom
Always use a night lite
Install grab bars in showers and on sides of the toilet
Make sure your bathtub or shower is non-skid
Keep water spills off the floor
Keep hot water temperature low enough so it can’t burn
When possible, only bathe or shower when someone is nearby
Use a bedside commode if getting to the bathroom overnight is a hazard
