Guest Blog: Home Instead

Aging comfortably at home is a goal many of us share, but we often forget about the need to keep our home safe. As you continue to enjoy your home, it’s essential to recognize and minimize potential hazards before they become problems. Thankfully, many risks at home can be managed easily with just a few simple adjustments.

Here is a helpful checklist to ensure you stay safe at home:

Clear the clutter. Keep pathways free of items like shoes, magazines, or cords.
Improve lighting. Use nightlights, motion-sensor lights, or brighter bulbs in hallways and living areas.
Secure regs and cords. Use rug pads or tape, and route cords away from walking areas.
Install grab bars. Place them in key areas such as bathrooms and stairways for extra stability.
Check alarms. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly and replace batteries once a year.
Accessible emergency information. Post contact and medical info in a visible place-like the fridge.
Ensure there’s enough space to move around, especially if using mobility aids.
Use bed risers or low-profile mattresses to adjust bed height for safe entry and exit.
Keep a charged phone or alert system by the bedside.
Install grab bars near the toilet and shower.
Use non-slip mats inside and outside the tub.
Set the water heater to 120˚F to prevent burns.
Consider a shower seat and handheld showerhead for comfort and safety.
Store medications and other frequently used items in cabinets that are within reach to avoid straining or bending.

In addition to providing professional caregivers to assist you in your aging journey, Home Instead can provide a free home safety assessment. Call us today to get scheduled.

708-482-8660