25 Small Ways To Keep Them Safe At Home.

I know for many of us long-time caregivers in this sub, home safety is a constant thought and we've probably tried a million things. This list might be old hat for some of you pros, and if so, please add your own wisdom in the comments! But for those who are new to this journey, or for anyone just looking for a fresh idea, I hope you can find at least one useful tip here.

Here are 25 small, often inexpensive, things that can make a big difference in keeping our parents safe and independent in their own homes.

Fall Prevention is Priority #1

1. De-Rug the House:

Get rid of throw rugs where you can. If they absolutely must stay, secure them firmly with double-sided carpet tape. They are a massive tripping hazard!

1. Light the Way:

Plug in bright nightlights in hallways, bedrooms, and especially the bathroom for those middle-of-the-night trips. Consider leaving out of the way lights (such as over the kitchen sink) on full-time.

1. Clear the Clutter:

Create wide, clear pathways through all rooms. Remove stacks of magazines, unnecessary furniture, and anything else that clutters the floor.

1. Check Handrails:

Make sure all stair railings are sturdy and secure. If there are no rails on a set of stairs (even small ones), get them installed!

1. Encourage Good Footwear:

Slippers without backs, loose sandals, or just socks can be very slippery. Suggest supportive shoes or slippers with rubber soles. If they like to go barefoot, anti-slip shower stickers are surprisingly versatile. Place them in front of the fridge, sinks, toilet, in doorways, around the dining table, etc.

1. Bathroom Safety Install Grab Bars:

This isn't just for inside the shower! Add them next to the toilet to help with sitting and standing, and even in places such as hallways or corners! Removing them is no different than patching a screw hole for a large painting or shelf.

1. Get a Shower Chair:

A simple plastic shower chair or bench can prevent falls in a slippery tub and reduce fatigue. If your parents are resistant to plastic chairs, consider something like a Japanese bathing stool, which are traditionally wooden and sturdy.

1. Use Non-Slip Mats:

Put a non-slip mat or non-slip shower stickers inside the tub or shower, and a non-slip bath mat on the floor outside of it.

1. Consider a Raised Toilet Seat:

This can make a huge difference for someone with knee or hip issues! It's easier to get up and down, and doesn't put as much pressure on the hips.

1. Install a Handheld Shower Head:

This allows them to sit while showering and have better control, reducing the need to twist and turn and improving their fall risk.

Kitchen & Fire Safety

1. Lower the Water Heater Temp:

Set the thermostat on their water heater to 120°F to prevent accidental scalds to thin skin. This can also reduce the risk of shower time heart attacks.

1. Check Smoke & CO Detectors:

Test them monthly and change the batteries at least once a year. Consider getting models with 10-year sealed batteries.

1. Store Heavy Items Low:

Place heavy pots, pans, and appliances on lower, easily accessible shelves to avoid reaching or straining.

1. Get an Auto-Shutoff Kettle:

Many seniors love a cup of tea. An electric kettle that automatically turns off is much safer than a stovetop one that can be forgotten, and bottom pour spouts are much better than lifting the whole kettle!

1. Purge the Pantry & Fridge:

Regularly help them check expiration dates on food to prevent foodborne illness. Keep in mind, people raised in the Depression or who have lived in poverty will instinctively want to hoard food. You can help by knowing what they tend to let grow moldy and bringing replacements with you, or filling the fridge with other items so it still feels full.

Medication & Emergency Prep

1. Use a Pill Organizer:

A simple weekly or monthly pill box can prevent missed doses or accidental double-dosing. If you are tech-savvy, there are some amazing wall mount dispenser options these days!

1. Post Emergency Numbers:

Create a large-print list with numbers for 911, poison control, their doctor, and key family members. Post it on the fridge and by every phone.

1. Consider a Medical Alert System:

A wearable button can be a literal lifesaver if they fall and can't get to a phone.

1. "Vial of Life" Program:

Put a copy of their medical history, medications, and allergies in a plastic bag or vial in or magneted to the refrigerator. Put a sticker on the front door to alert first responders to look for it. (You can find these on Amazon.)

1. Accessible Phones:

Make sure a phone is always within reach. This could be a cordless phone in each main room or setting up a voice controlled Alexa in each room that can make calls.

General Home Environment

1. Improve Lighting:

Replace dim bulbs with brighter, energy-efficient ones. Poor lighting can hide tripping hazards, create disorientation, and increase sundowning.

1. Fix Wobbly Furniture:

A chair or table that isn't stable can be dangerous if they use it for support!

1. Manage Cords:

Tidy up electrical and phone cords! Don't run them under rugs (fire hazard!) and use cord organizers to keep them tucked away where they aren't a tripping or catching hazard.

1. Get a Video Doorbell:

This allows them to see and speak to who is at the door without opening it, which is great for security. You can also get alerts if unusual motion (like falling) is detected in the viewing area, and check in yourself.

1. Leverage Voice Assistants:

Devices like Alexa or Google Home can be amazing! They can use them to call family with just their voice, turn lights on and off, get weather reports, or set medication reminders.

I really hope this helps. What are your go-to safety hacks? Your experience could be a lifeline for someone else!

((Remember, take care of yourself too! You can't pour from an empty cup.))