With a growing number of older adults living independently, it’s increasingly important to make sure that they’re safe at home. Falls, burns, and poisonings are among the most common accidents involving older people. Older adults who live alone may also become the victims of criminals who target older people. If you’re an older adult living on your own, or care for an older person living alone, here’s what you need to do to stay safe.
Keep emergency numbers handy
Always keep a list of emergency numbers by each phone. Write this information in large enough print that you can read it easily if you are in a hurry or frightened. Be sure to list numbers for:
911
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
Family member or friend to call in case of emergency
Healthcare provider’s office
Prevent falls
If you have difficulty with walking or balance, or have fallen in the past year, talk to your healthcare provider about having a special falls risk assessment.
Ask your provider if you would benefit from an exercise program to prevent falls.
If you have fallen before, or are scared of falling, think about buying a special alarm that you wear as a bracelet or necklace. Then, if you fall and can’t get to the phone, you can push a button on the alarm that will call emergency services for you.
Don’t rush to answer the phone. Many people fall trying to answer the phone. Either carry a cordless or cell phone or let an answering machine pick up.
When walking on smooth floors, wear non-slip footwear, such as slippers with rubber/no-slip bottoms or flat, thin-soled shoes that fit well.
If you have a cane or a walker, use it at all times instead of holding onto walls and furniture.
Safety-proof your home
Make sure all hallways, stairs, and paths are well lit and clear of objects such as books or shoes.
Use rails and banisters when going up and down the stairs. Never place scatter rugs at the bottom or top of stairs.
Tape all area rugs to the floor so they do not move when you walk on them.