Old age is inevitable. Not every senior prefers to spend this part of life at a home care facility. Statistics have it that many older people opt to live alone nowadays. This idea is rewarding and risky, especially regarding safety issues related to staying alone at that age.
That brings you to today’s discussion, which addresses safety tips for seniors living alone.
Tip #1: Have an Alarm System
Alarm systems are a crucial safety feature to every household but are more vital to seniors staying alone. This technology helps homeowners notify the neighbours or security team about a prevailing issue.
The alarm should be easily accessible for quick calls for help to ensure the seniors have enough peace of mind. Ensure installation is done by a reputable security company that offers adequate and timely responses to their clients.
Tip #2: Keep Emergency Contacts Close
Another security tip for seniors living by themselves is having emergency contacts nearby. Again, emergencies are unforeseen, and this age group tends to be more vulnerable.
If you’re a caregiver or relative, it’s advisable to write the most common and active contacts for them and make them visible enough. They include a healthcare professional’s office, a close family member, a reliable neighbour, and 911.
Tip #3: Build Walk-in Bathtubs
According to research, approximately two in every ten seniors living alone suffer injuries or, worse, death from bathroom falls. You can help eliminate such statistics by embracing walk in tubs for seniors, especially for those who stay alone. These bathtubs have safety features that help minimize the chances of falls.
They have non-slip surfaces, built-in seats, and low entry mechanisms, enhancing stability and safety. You can also customize them to the unique requirements of the senior using them.
Tip #4: Senior Proof the Home
Many often neglect some safety techniques when seniors are around, maybe because they can help with a few things. It’s different when the person is staying alone, meaning there’s no fully available helper for them.
In such cases, you must ensure the house is adequately senior-proofed to prevent accidents. Some ways include incorporating rugs or carpets on the floor, installing rails on the stairs, and keeping away items that could cause falls.
Tip #5: Stay Physically Fit
As a senior living alone, it’s important always to maintain physical fitness. Some common injuries encountered by such people result from poor balance. Therefore, staying as fit as possible is essential to eliminate such risks.
If you’re a caregiver, ensure to find the right exercises for them while providing a healthy diet. Drinking enough water and maintaining an impressive social life is also highly recommended. Such practices help seniors combat various old-age challenges associated with instability.
Tip #6: Keep Medications Nearby
It’s common for the elderly to have a few medications that help them control different conditions. If you have people with whom you live together, they can help you take the drugs through constant reminders.
This can be pretty hard when you stay alone, but it shouldn’t let you ignore your medication. Keeping the packets close alongside alarms would ensure you don’t miss a dose. Furthermore, stay on track for refills before they are completely depleted.
Tip #7: Repair Problems Immediately
A senior’s home is just like any other and often needs repairs. What you cannot afford to do is leave these issues unattended for even a day due to the amount of danger involved.
Always organize for immediate repairs to inhibit unfortunate occurrences like falls. Professional checkups should be more regular than usual to ensure that seniors are always protected.
Tip #8: Secure the Home
Burglars, intruders, and other criminals primarily target homes whose inhabitants are vulnerable and helpless, like seniors staying independently. Securing the house and compound helps to keep invasion instances at bay.
You can install various home security systems to guarantee constant monitoring. These include CCTVs, smoke detectors, fire alarms, environmental sensors, burglar alarms, and security personnel.
Tip #9: Have a Friend or Relative Pass By Occasionally
Living alone shouldn’t translate to isolation. Having a close friend or relative pass by occasionally is advisable for safety. When you need a refill of several things in the house, they can help you.
You can also share with them how you’ve been fairing and if something needs to be done. Experts recommend this tip even when the senior has travelled to keep the norm that the house is never empty.
Tip #10: Stay Updated
Staying aware of the latest trends as a senior living alone can help enhance safety. You don’t have to be focused on everything that goes on. It can be exhausting. Information linked to health updates, legal matters, financial assistance (from the government/community), and precautions can be beneficial. You can subscribe to the local news channel or follow social media pages about elderly safety.
These safety tips for seniors who live by themselves help minimize the risk of injuries and accidents while improving general wellness. Incorporating them into your loved one’s home can significantly empower them in these challenging years. You can consider a reputable home care-giving company for more personalized services.
