– Use fire precautions – This is not limited to the elderly, but can often be overlooked. Electric hobs can provide a safer option. – Install electric hob instead of gas – Releasing too much gas when lighting the hob or leaving burners on can be an easy mistake. For those with significant mobility problems, having an emergency commode can help reduce any feelings of anxiety. – Use a commode – The night time can be especially dangerous for the elderly, who may have to get to use the bathroom several times a night. – Teach getting up from the floor – Asking a physiotherapist to assess the need for this manoeuvre can be helpful in emergencies and allow an older adult to call for help. – Supply a grabber to pick up dropped objects – Bending over to pick up a fallen object can be challenging for elderly individuals with mobility problems. Combined with a handrail, your loved one will be able to wash safely. – Use rubber mats in the shower or bath – Many falls occur in the bathroom due to slipping. Alternatively, a perching stool can be a useful for intermittent, sink based washes. – Consider a walk-in shower if getting in and out of the bath is unsafe – Many elderly individuals may find this a very tricky manoeuvre due to hip pain or dysfunction. Consider installing a second stair rail and checking anchor points regularly. – Ensure stair handrails are secure – Elderly individuals may rely on handrails to compensate for muscular weakness. – Ensure appropriate footwear is worn – Many of us wear ill-fitting slippers around the house which poses a significant falls risk for those with mobility issues. – Keep ferrules in good condition – If your loved one uses a walking stick, intermittently check the ferrule (rubber ending), which when worn, causes slippage on wet surfaces. – Provide mobility aids on all levels – For those who require a walking stick or zimmer frame, ensure walking aids are available for use on each level of the house. Raising the height of furniture can assist with such transfers. – Install a toilet, chair and bed raise if necessary – Many elderly individuals may lack sufficient strength to go from sitting to standing. You can then affix the speed dial numbers onto the phone as a guide. – Keep emergency contacts on speed dial – For those with memory issues, having preset numbers can help them call quickly when needed. – Big buttoned phone – Useful communication aid for those with sight or dexterity problems. They can be used to alert loved ones, carers or the health service. If a loved one falls and is unable to get off the floor to call for a help, for example, a personal alarm can be vital. – Wear a personal alarm – Often emergencies occur unexpectedly. – Ensure all areas are adequately lit – Especially important for those with visual impairment and during the winter months. – Protect sharp furniture – In some instances, it may be sensible to cover or protect sharp corners or edges, which can easily break fragile skin. – Stick mats and rugs down or remove them – Mats have a tendency to curl up at the ends or slip on some types of flooring, making them dangerous for those with mobility problems. – Tidy leads or cables – An easy way to minimise tripping hazards. – Move objects to lower levels – Stretching above head height may be difficult for those with mobility issues while standing on raised platforms can pose a falls risk.
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