Avoid Accidents for Aging Parents

By Care at Home | September 13, 2021

Home safety must be a consideration to avoid accidents for aging parents living alone or with family members. Among the most common accidents that involve older people are household hazards such as falls, burns, and poisoning. Taking appropriate measures can help prevent accidents like these and allow loved ones to age or recover in the safest environment possible.

Remove Fall Hazards for Aging Parents

One in three adults over 65 years old and half of the adults over 80 years old experience falls each year. While there’s no way to mitigate all risks, simple adjustments can help prevent falls and create a safer living space.

Keep pets secured in one area of the home.
Remove or secure throw rugs.
Improve lighting throughout the home.
Install handrails and grab bars.

Home Safety Assessment

Homes may require more advanced or permanent modifications to keep aging or disabled parents safe. For example, bathrooms are dangerous for people with limited mobility. Improperly installed grab bars or a lack of non-slip bathmats could be a recipe for injury. You may want to consult a Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist (CAPS) to ensure all home modifications are in place. They can also help you hire experienced contractors who understand the challenges of home safety.

Doctors also recommend an annual Home Safety Assessment, where a trained advisor evaluates the home for safety hazards. Assessments typically take 60-90 minutes and can identify and prioritize low, moderate, and high-cost modifications.

Home Care Services

Spouses, siblings, and children of aging parents can consider home care services to help loved ones age safely in place. Experienced caregivers will assist with light housekeeping, meal preparation, fall prevention, errands, and ambulation assistance and transfers. These professionals can help reduce risks while improving the home care recipient’s quality of life and independence.