How to Keep Seniors Safe at Home and Prevent Elderly Accidents

Despite their potential ability to be quick-minded, our elderly loved ones are not quick-moving. As caregivers, we want only the best for our loved ones, so we must be well-versed in how to care for them in the best way possible. 

We understand how crucial it is to be attentive to an aged loved one’s mental, physical, and emotional health. That’s why we encourage you to use our guide to better understand how to keep seniors safe at home and prevent elderly accidents. 

Know the Risks

People are always at risk of injury, but the risk is higher for adults 65 and over. Knowing the potential issues your loved one may encounter helps you take better precautions, instill safe habits, and stay alert. Our team of experienced professionals is well-versed in the dangers seniors may encounter and how to respond or plan for them properly. 

Fall Risks

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), one out of four Americans 65 years old and older falls at least once yearly. As our loved ones age, the risk of falling becomes more significant. Falls and trips are potentially dangerous for seniors, which can lead to fractures, head injuries, broken bones, and more. 

Burns Risks

The American Burn Association reported adults 61 and older are at an increased risk of injury and death from kitchen fires. Aging is beautiful, but it does come with more health issues as time passes. Our elderly loved ones may have impaired vision, hearing, and mental capabilities. Potential problems like these increase the risk of burns from cooking, candles, fireplaces, hot tools, etc. 

Cuts Risks

Another threat aging loved ones face in the kitchen is cuts. From knives to scissors, several items are potential dangers for seniors. Beyond standard tools, elders can get cuts from items that break or shatter. 

Preventative Measures and Tools

According to the Hospital for Special Surgery, over 60% of falls for seniors happen at home. Our team at Moore Care actively implements safe habits and procedures to stop that percentage from rising. The best way to stop senior injuries is by taking preventative measures. 

Fall Prevention

One of the best ways for elders to avoid falls is to clear pathways and open spaces. Eliminating hazards on the floor lowers the risk of your loved one tripping and falling. At Moore Care, our team covers every base to ensure the safety of your loved one, including keeping their environment safe. 

Healthy activities and exercises are another effective way of lowering the potential of falls. Our team of professionals develops personalized routines that include activities like exercise that focus on your loved one’s needs. 

Several items are available for you to install to better secure seniors’ safety. Handrails on stairs, bathtubs, showers, and next to toilets allow elders to pick themselves up and prevent the likelihood of slipping. Adequate lighting is essential for seniors, who are more likely to develop vision impairment. The final tool you could utilize to protect your loved one from falls is taping down or applying adhesives to rugs and mats. 

Cut and Burn Prevention

From lighting a match to cutting open a box, cuts and burns can happen anytime. According to Harvard Health, the body’s ability to repair skin diminishes as we age. Meaning cuts and burns could be more severe for our aging loved ones. 

We know the significance of not only caring for elders but also ensuring their safety, which is a top priority. You could take several tools and measures to avoid burns and cuts.

Nonslip cutting boards and cut-resistant gloves are great items they can use when cutting food and other things. Making necessary items accessible for your loved one is essential. Seniors using stools or chairs to reach items can lead to severe injuries if they fall. 

At Moore Care, we not only understand the importance of but also prioritize the well-being of the elders we work with. Our team is well equipped, properly trained, and has in-depth experience caring for seniors’ mental, emotional, and physical health.

Keeping your loved one’s space safe is about more than maintaining the cleanliness of their area. It involves instilling a well-rounded routine, healthy habits, and a balanced mindset for your loved one. For more information on our caregiver services and work, visit our main page here.