Senior Care: June is National Safety Month

Senior Care in Greenfield, IN

Senior Care in Greenfield, INThere are a number of ways to approach the term “safety” with regards to elder care, but we’re going to look specifically at how to keep seniors safe in their homes and when driving. With June being National Safety Month, this is a great opportunity for families and caregivers to take a proactive role with their senior care routines and up the ante with their safety plans.

Setting up a Plan of Action:

There may already be a safety plan in place and safety measures may have already been taken when home care was originally arranged. However, it doesn’t hurt for caregivers and family members to revisit these plans and take another look at an aging loved one’s home periodically to ensure a fall hazard or other safety issues do not crop up. Not only does this help loved ones maintain a longer quality of life, but it helps maintain peace of mind for everyone for a longer period of time as well.

How to “Fall-Proof” a Home:

  • Clear away clutter, furniture that is small, items for pets, cords, small rugs, and other items that could become trip hazards.
  • Rearrange furniture, or remove it altogether, so there are wide walking areas.
  • Make carpeting securely fastened to the flooring.
  • Spills should be wiped up from flooring immediately.
  • All outdoor areas should be well-lit, walkways should be smooth, and there should be no ice during the winter.
  • Stairs should have non-slip adhesive strips affixed to them.
  • Non-skid appliques or mats should be placed within the shower.
  • Grab bars should be installed next to (or near) the toilet and within the shower (or tub).
  • Both sides of all stairways should have hand railings installed.
  • Every room and stairway should have adequate lighting installed.
  • Nightlights should be placed or installed within hallways, bathrooms, and the kitchen.
  • Items that are used the most often should be placed within reach to avoid the temptation of use of step stools, ladders, or chairs for accessing them.

Make Driving Safer:

There are ways for every driver to stay safe, senior or not, according to The National Safety Council. This is by slowing down, making sure your choices are good ones, ensuring your seat belts are buckled, and keeping a lookout for children. Additionally, drivers should not drive while they are under the influence.

Additional Help Could be Required for Seniors

Injury Facts 2014 states that, when drivers are above the age of 75, their risk of a car crash becomes increased. It is suggested that the resources provided by NHTSA should be referenced in order to determine whether or not loved ones should still be driving or not. Within this information, there is also advice with regards to how to make modifications to vehicles so older drivers who are experiencing physical challenges are still able to drive. The NHTSA also provides information advising home care providers and families how to have discussions about medical conditions or older driving conditions that could have an effect on their driving. This will help families determine if public transportation is a safer option.

Source

http://www.nsc.org/learn/safety-knowledge/Pages/safety-at-home.aspx

The professionals at Great Care are available to talk with you and your family about all of your home care needs. Great Care is a non medical in-home care agency providing quality and affordable senior care in Greenfield, IN and the surrounding areas. Call (317) 595-9933 for more information.

About Julie Sullivan

Julie Sullivan is the Owner at GreatCare of Indianapolis IN.
GreatCare is a licensed, personal services agency, providing in-home care services to the Indianapolis, Indiana and surrounding areas. We serve the personal health and daily care needs of seniors or individuals who prefer to stay at home, but require assistance with everyday activities, such as dressing, personal hygiene, meal preparation, laundry or errands. Our team of certified nurse aids and home health aids can provide you with personalized, in-home care services to meet your needs, including:
Daytime hourly in-home care
Temporary or post-hospital respite care
24-hour, around-the-clock home care
Morning and evening care
Overnight / Slumber care
In addition, we offer our Care Compass service, to assist in setting the course for the next stage in your loved ones life. We guide you through the currents of aging, and help you find your true north. Our licensed nurses, with experience in hospice and geriatric care, will help guide you through the complex and often sensitive journey of selecting an in-home care service, and will provide a smooth transition to a new way of life for your loved one, without the anxiety and fear.

Our current nursing and management team has more than 75 years of combined experience in the home healthcare services industry. All of our caregivers are bonded, insured and screened thoroughly, so you know you’ll be receiving the greatest care possible. That’s why we stand by our mission: to deliver the same, quality care we expect for ourselves and our loved ones.
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