General Suggestions

Keeping Your Loved One Safe at Home Reducing the Risk of Accidents and Falls for Seniors

• Place a list of emergency phone numbers by each telephone in large, easy to read type. Include your own number and 911, both of which can easily be forgotten by seniors under stressful conditions. Include the number of a close neighbor, whoever can reach your loved one first in an emergency.
• Check all electrical cords, and replace those showing signs of wear and tear.
• Be sure all electrical outlets are in good repair and not overloaded.
• Avoid the use of extension cords, if possible, and especially those placed across doorways or in walkways.
• If floors are waxed, be sure to use non-skid wax.
• Be sure that all throw rugs have a rubber backing or non-skid strips.
• Check the lighting around and throughout the house to be sure it’s strong enough and there are no dim or unlighted areas.
• Be sure all doors can be unlocked from the outside in case of an emergency, especially those in the bathroom and bedroom.
• Put smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in appropriate places, and replace the batteries twice a year.
• Install night lights in bedrooms, bathrooms, the kitchen, and hallways, and check them periodically to be sure they’re working.
• Go through your loved one’s medication periodically to check expiration dates, and be sure to use an automatic pill dispenser, or one divided into days and times.
• Mark the edges of all steps in and outside the home with brightly colored tape to compensate for failing eyesight and depth perception.
• Be sure any pet beds are located out of the way of foot traffic.
• Make sure door sills are as low as possible, and not uneven, chipped, or broken.
• Be sure all doors have a peephole, including the back door, if there is one.
• Have an emergency exit plan in place in case of fire, and go over it with your loved one often.