One of the many issues facing new caregivers is the task of safety-proofing their home for the elderly. The average home is full of safety hazards that have to be addressed when a senior citizen moves in. How much or how little depends on the physical and cognitive limitations of the elder in question.
Most caregivers expect to install safety rails, door alarms, and non-skid rugs. These are some of the most obvious safety precautions to implement for the well-being of the elderly.
However, here are a few lesser known safety risks that can put your loved one in danger too. Here a few risks you should consider:
Preventing Pet-Related Accidents
Pet therapy is beneficial for the elderly, and it is very unlikely that you will have to choose between a beloved family pet and your elderly loved one. You may have to provide close supervision though, especially when your senior first moves in, and pets perceive him or her as a stranger. Dogs may bite. Cats may scratch. Cats and dogs can both cause trips and falls.
Many different animals can trigger allergies, as can certain types of pet bedding. Just be cautious in the beginning and try to keep rambunctious pets securely separated.
Also, be certain that pet medication and shampoos are kept separate from human versions! In cases of poor eyesight or dementia, lock away any pet medications or shampoos, and keep canned or boxed pet foods in their own area.
Preventing Burns and Scalds in the Elderly
The elderly (especially those with dementia) are just as likely to suffer accidental burns as young children. Burn-proof your home by adding safety locks to your stove knobs (if needed). Keep candles and electric oil burners placed in a safe place where they can't be bumped. Keep electrical cords tucked behind furniture
Turn the water heater to 120 degrees or below and always test water before giving your elderly loved one a bath. They may not be able to tell you if water is too hot or too cold.
If your loved one suffers from dementia, supervise the use of the microwave, toaster and other "hot appliances". Install safety caps in plugs too, if you suspect there may be an electrocution risk.
A person with poor vision may not be able to see outlets well, and could accidentally touch metal prongs. It's a good idea to replace metal outlet covers with plastic or wooden versions in the elder's room.
If you have wall heaters or freestanding heaters, keep the area around them clear at all times. Make sure your loved one doesn't accidentally drape clothing over heaters or set items nearby. A fire screen can be a nice visual barricade, so consider buying an inexpensive screen to place in front of any wall heaters.
Medication
You probably think that medication supervision is as easy as reminding the elderly to take their pills.
It isn't!
If they can't remember to take their pills, they may also be double-dosing. Or they could be abusing over the counter medications. This can mean creams, gels, ointments, tinctures and other external medicines too.
These all have the potential to be toxic if over-used and if mixed with other medications. If an elderly person is showing poor judgement about drugs, or you notice strange side effects of medication usage, consider locking all medications away, and dispensing as needed, based on your own judgement.
Chemicals
Household and lawn chemicals can be lethal if swallowed, inhaled or mixed with other chemicals. This is especially dangerous when your elderly loved one is confused or has poor vision. Since aging may also reduce the sense of smell or taste in some individuals, they might not be alerted even by a bitter taste or pungent odor until it is too late.Practice safety by storing chemicals either in their original containers, or in bottles labeled with LARGE print and/or a picture cue (such as a skull and crossbones).
If your relative is confused and might try at some time to either consume or mix chemicals, consider a locking cabinet for all household cleaners. If an elder wishes to help with household tasks provide non-toxic alternatives, such as vinegar or lemon juice in a spray bottle.
(This is never mentioned, and I have met a caregiver whose mother accidentally poured a household cleaner into her coffee, thinking it was creamer. Independence is great, but safety is better.)
Sharp Objects
Your home holds a seemingly innocent arsenal of dangerous items. Razors, knives, plant-stakes, hangers, forks, tools...all of these things can be hazardous if mishandled. The person with dementia may not understand that these items can hurt them.
They may know the items are dangerous, but think they care using them correctly.
Elderly persons with failing eyesight may misjudge and grasp knife blades accidentally or cut their fingers while trying to slice food. Scissors can also be dangerous for those with poor eye-sight, arthritis, or failing cognitive functions. They can easily get fingers in the way of blades on electric appliances.
To maintain dignity, replace frequently used items with safety versions. Examples of these include blunt forks and safety scissors. Or provide supervision when in use.
Remove items such as plant stakes from the home and yard to prevent a serious injury in case of falls.
Heat
Certain medications (such as blood thinners) can cause the elderly to feel cold. Because of this, they may not be able to accurately judge surrounding temperature. This can lead to heatstroke and dehydration. You may notice that they layer on several pieces of clothing, then sleep under an electric blanket, with the heater on.
Or they may enjoy sitting outside in the sun, not realizing they are overheating. The U.S National institute of Aging warns that elderly are less able to adapt to high temperatures, which can exacerbate pre-existing conditions and create new health issues.
Monitor your loved one closely for seasonally appropriate clothing. Adjust room temperatures to be comfortable. In the heat of summer, keep them indoors in the air-conditioning, or outdoors in shady areas with plenty to drink.
Take Preventative Action Against Elderly Safety Hazards
Removing or monitoring these safety risks can improve the quality of your elderly loved one's life. There may be a struggle at first, but you can reassure them that you are taking these measures for their own benefit.
Have their healthcare provider back you up, if your relative shows resentment, and take comfort in knowing that you have just removed some caregiver stress from yourself, as well.
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