Helping Seniors Stay Safe At Home

Updated 09/26/24

If you care for an elderly person, you may become concerned about their safety. According to the CDC, over 234,000 accidents occurred due to slips or falls in U.S. bathrooms. Many senior citizens with mobility problems find it difficult to navigate their bathrooms. To help keep your elderly loved one safe, consider a bathroom remodel to enhance their safety.

Many general contractors can help you, but you may be better off looking for bathroom remodeling companies. They may suggest walk-in showers for elderly people since this type of shower doesn’t require them to climb over the tub. Some senior shower models include a shower bench or grab bars on the shower walls. If you keep your bathtub, you may install bathtub support for elderly relatives, such as a tub rail to help them over the rim of the tub.

While remodeling bathrooms, you should consider which bathroom aids for seniors may be needed. For example, clients with difficulty sitting may need an elevated toilet seat. Shower accessories for seniors may include a handheld shower head so they can easily reach their lower body. Most senior clients would also benefit from an anti-slip bathmat inside the shower. Ensure you do your research when looking for ways to help seniors stay safe at home.

Many elderly people may find themselves living alone following the loss of a spouse or companion, but are not yet ready to move to assisted living facilities or independent senior housing. While the seniors may be confident in their abilities to live at home, their families may have some concerns. Investing in devices to make the senior safer and more comfortable at home can give family members peace of mind while respecting the wishes of the elderly family member.

Every senior should have a phone in case of emergencies, and to keep in contact with friends, family, and medical professionals. While many seniors may wish to keep their land line with the same numbers, they may also benefit from a cell phone. Both cell phones and traditional phones come in senior-friendly options, with larger buttons and displays. Some seniors may wish to have a simple smartphone, with GPS and search capabilities for when they are out of the house.

Motion-activated lights can be beneficial both inside the house and out. Keeping a home well-lit is important for seniors who may be visually impaired, and having the lights on a motion sensor can keep the homeowner from having to grope for a light switch in the dark. Motion lights have the added benefit of deterring burglars, vandals, and other criminals, keeping the elderly safe in more ways than one.

While not necessary for safety, a computer or tablet can help seniors feel more comfortable and connected in their home. Setup on these devices gets easier with each year, and the benefits are nearly endless. From Facebook and Skype keeping seniors connected to friends and family, to mind puzzles and games to help keep them occupied, to newspapers, books, and movies for entertainment, access to the world no longer requires leaving the house. Many local libraries and senior centers offer classes on operating computers and tablets.

While there are many fantastic independent senior housing options, some seniors may feel that they aren’t ready to move just yet. Helping your senior family members stay safe and comfortable in their own home will make the transition easier down the line. Find out more here.