Not long ago, there was a story in a California newspaper about a 90 year old woman who was trapped in her bathtub because she was too weak to get up. (She survived by drinking water from a rubber duck). This is a true story and it reminds us that there are simple ways to make a home safer for an elderly family member. Here are just a few.
- Get a lifeline. These emergency response systems provide assistance around the clock
- Make sure smoke detectors and carbon dioxide alarms are installed, especially in the kitchen
- Buy small appliances that turn off automatically
- Ensure that all rooms have good lighting with convenient and easy to use switches
- Use nightlights near any night time traffic paths
- Get a telephone with enlarged buttons; get a cell phone for your parent
- Install grab bars in the bathroom and even a shower chair
- Place anti slip rubber decals on the bathtub or exchange the tub for a walk in shower with a shower seat to prevent falls
- Install a programmable thermostat
- Eliminate throw rugs to avoid slips
- Replace the faucets with single level handles for easier one handed control
- Have a spare key in the event of a lock-out; or consider installing a keypad (easier to operate than sticky keys)
- Encourage the use of deadbolts and a peepholes
- Help unclutter the house and cabinets
- Buy furniture that is easy to get up from