If you have a senior parent that wants to continue living independently you’re probably worried about their safety at home. Falls are a major concern for seniors and their family members, but falls aren’t the only way that seniors can get hurt if they’re living alone. One way that you can help protect your mom or dad from accidents and injuries at home is to get in-home care services. In-home care is care for seniors that is centered on helping seniors live independently.
A care provider will come to your mom or dad’s home and help them with everything from stripping the bed to going to the bank or the post office. They can also help your senior parent manage their medications so they don’t mix up medications or take the wrong dose of their medications.
Having that extra assistance will help your mom or dad continue to do daily activities safely. And it will give you the peace of mind of knowing that your mom or dad isn’t alone.
Some other things that can help your mom or dad live safely at home are:
1. Install Grab Bars in Key Areas
Grab bars provide support where your parent needs it most, like the bathroom. Slippery surfaces in showers or near toilets are common areas where seniors can slip and fall.
Adding grab bars next to the toilet, inside the shower, and near the tub helps your parent stay balanced. These bars are easy to grip, making it safer to get up or sit down.
Make sure the grab bars are securely attached to the wall so they can support your mom or dad’s weight even if your mom or dad has trouble shifting their weight. Installing grab bars in key places can greatly reduce the risk of falls.
2. Set Up an Emergency Alert System
An emergency alert system allows your parent to call for help quickly if they need it. Many systems have wearable buttons that your parent can press in an emergency, such as a fall. The alert system then contacts a family member, caregiver, or emergency services.
Some systems also have automatic fall detection, which sends an alert if it senses a sudden impact. This is a good option for seniors who might not be able to press a button during an emergency.
With an alert system, your parent can feel safer knowing that help is always a button press away. You will feel better too, knowing that your mom or dad can get immediate help if they need it.
3. Place Non-Slip Mats and Rugs
Non-slip mats are important in areas like the bathroom, kitchen, and entryways where floors can get wet. Place non-slip mats inside the shower, outside the tub, and in front of the sink to prevent slipping.
If your parent has area rugs, make sure they have non-slip backings to hold them in place. Mats and rugs without grips can slide around, creating a tripping hazard. You also may want to remove all area rugs and have wall-to-wall carpeting installed.
4. Improve Lighting in All Rooms
Good lighting is essential for your parent’s safety, especially if their vision isn’t as sharp as it used to be. Dim lighting makes it hard to see obstacles or edges on stairs. Make sure all rooms, hallways, and entryways are well-lit.
Consider adding brighter bulbs, motion-sensor lights in hallways, and nightlights in the bathroom and bedroom. Better lighting can prevent trips, falls, and accidents, making the home a safer place.
5. Keep Emergency Contacts Easily Accessible
In case of an emergency, your parent should have a list of contacts they can reach quickly. Write down emergency numbers, including family members, neighbors, doctors, and nearby friends.
Place the list somewhere obvious, like on the fridge or next to the phone. Make sure your parent’s cell phone has these contacts saved and that they know how to use it.
Keeping emergency contacts visible and easy to find can save precious time in an urgent situation, ensuring that help is available when needed.
If you or an aging loved one are considering In-Home Care Services in Gallatin TN, please get in touch with the caring staff at Senior Solutions Home Care. (615) 307-4509
Senior Solutions Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Nashville, Brentwood, Nolensville, Gallatin, Hendersonville, Smyrna, Murfreesboro, Mount Juliet, Lebanon, Goodlettsville, Davidson County, and surrounding areas.
Over the years, we have expanded, providing service in all 95 counties throughout Tennessee, and we now have a growing presence in Georgia.
Senior Solutions is recognized as a top 5% independent agency and a three-time Inc. 5000 honoree in 2018, 2019, and 2020. These types of awards matter to us because they show growth in our goal of eventually touching a million lives. We’re excited to continue that growth and to touch even more families with our commitment to quality care!
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