Safety in the home is now more important than ever. According to the National Safety Council, there are a staggering 72,600 deaths that take place in homes and in the community from unintentional injuries, as well as over 20 million disabling injuries, affecting 112 million households, costing Americans over $251.9 billion. These injuries range from falls, especially among adults 65 and older, to poisonings, overexertion, choking, drowning and many more incidents we never intended to happen.
Together, we need to think of safety not only in the workplace but also when we are in our homes and communities. By understanding the hazards we face on a daily basis, we can collectively make ourselves safer and better off for it. But sometimes, the challenges of everyday living can be beyond even the most independent-minded person. It's important to know if someone is safe, especially family and seniors.
Since June is officially National Home Safety Month, here are some simple tips to consider making your home a safer place for everyone:
*Have handrails on both sides of the stairwell or steps
*Tape rugs to the floor or do not use them at all
*Use nightlights in bedroom, hallway and bathroom
*Install grab bars in the shower/bath
*Track medicine intake with a weekly pill holder
*Use a mat or non-slip strips in shower/bath
*Practice good fire safety in the kitchen
*Have working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors
Age alone should never limit horizons and our new world of longevity offers seniors an enriched life that continues to expand with meaning and purpose. Yet despite all the precautions you can take with home safety, sometimes a hard decision needs to be made about whether loved ones or seniors can stay independent and safe by themselves. The Interim Independent Living Assessment was specifically designed to help identify factors that may place someone's safety at risk. By taking the time to answer these questions, you can learn more about what places someone in an unsafe situation. You will also receive suggestions for getting extra help or support. And if you need additional information or help, you can easily contact the nearest Interim Healthcare office.
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