Question

the interior of an older adult’s home what are some things that could cause it unsafe and what are things we can do to make it safer?

Answer 1

Unsafe things in older adults home are as follows:-

One can suffer a fall or a trip by throw rugs , clutter of things can cause tendency to falls. Steps that are too long and steep cause fall or trip due to uneven surface level and muscle fatigue. If the source of light is too dim or bright can cause fall as due to dim light one can trip and on the other hand bright light causes glare . sometimes we keep pets for guarding which can also come underneath ones feet and cause fall .unstable chairs and tables may cause fall hazard specially if without arm support. we should avoid keeping extension cords across the hallway or middle of the room as it is very dangerous and can cause fall or trip. Toilet seats that are too low can be a major hazard for falls cause sometimes legs give out . Sloping driveway due to uneven surface can cause falls.cracks in sideways or pathway may cause fall as sometimes ones feet go inside them resulting in fall. Again one of the dangerous things is over the counter medicine specially diphenhydramine can cause confusion , dementia in older adults.some unlabelled chemicals which when indigested can cause poisoning. Faulty fire detection system as we all know 65 year people are more prone to die in a fire break out. Space heater can break fire typically when left on and forgotten about them. How make an older adult home safe? By keeping some emergency numbers handy like 911, poison control number, Family member , friends number, ones health care providers number. Prevention of falls by we need to ask ones health care provider for ones special risk assessment if one has fallen before. Make sure one wears an alarm bracelet so that if one falls can push the alarm button if one is not able to reach the phone.Do not rush to answer a call it is always better to carry a cordless or cell phone . Wearing a non slipping slipper or footwear. If one uses cane or a walker he or she should use it always. Make sure hallways, rooms, stairs are well clear of objects.using railings when going down . Never place a rug at the top or bottom of the staircase. Tape all the ruga to avoid falls or trips. Make sure stairs are adequately lit . Avoiding set thermostat water heater no higher than 120 degrees to prevent scalding. Installing hand grabs in shower and toilet areas to facilitate getting up and around safely and easily. Put rubber mats in tub and bathroom to prevent slipping. Using a special chair or raised toilet seats if one has hard time in getting out and in the tub.prevent fire if fire break out don't try to pull it out just leave and call 911 know two emergency exits. Do not wear loose and long sleeved clothing. Replace batteries of alarms and devices. Don't put many cords in extension cord socket.Installation of smoke detectors and replacing their batteries.Never smoke in bed or keep candles or space heaters on. Never try a stove or grill as the give out carbon monoxide which is deadly gase.Install carbon monoxide detectors and replace their batteries . Never mix bleach and cleaning liquids as they make deadly gases .keep all medication labeled which ones health care provider prescribed.Avoid over the counter medicines . Prevent abuse by keeping doors and windows always locked. Never let a stranger inside if alone . It always good to discuss with a friend or a family member before purchasing or signing any contract.