VISITING ANGELS LITTLETON, CO 720-981-0804
Facebook YouTube X Instagram LinkedIn

Nine In-Home Safety Risks for Seniors in Littleton, CO and Surrounding Areas and How Our Caregivers Can Help

Learn how caregivers from Visiting Angels can help seniors in Littleton, Englewood, Centennial, Parker and nearby cities in Colorado stay safe by protecting them from these common in-home safety risks

If aging in place is the right choice for your older loved one, ensuring their home is free of common household safety hazards is a critical component. Unfortunately, some in-home safety risks are overlooked by family members. According to HealthinAging.org, “Falls, burns, and poisonings are among the most common accidents involving older people.”

Here are nine safety hazards our caregivers at Visiting Angels Littleton commonly encounter in homes of seniors:

1. Lack of non-slip pads under carpets and rugs

Anti-slip rug pads and anti-skid tape can prevent carpets and rugs from sliding out from under your senior loved one’s feet and causing a serious fall. Also, non-slip backing may prevent carpets and rugs from bunching up or becoming loose and causing a tripping hazard, which is important if your senior loved one uses a walker or cane.

2. Poor diet

Adequate nutrition is an integral part of your senior’s health and wellness. Eating unhealthy food, not eating enough, and an inability to safely prepare healthy meals are some common problems that prevent good nutrition. At Visiting Angels Littleton, our caregivers can help by shopping for and preparing nutritious meals, managing food inventory and ensuring your senior eats regular meals.

3. Outdated appliances

Outdated appliances that aren’t in good working condition can cause problems. A malfunctioning furnace could lead to an overly warm or chilly house. A faulty stove or oven can result in undercooked or burnt food. Old appliances could also be a fire hazard. Your loved one’s in-home care provider can make sure appliances are functioning correctly and let you know of problems.

4. Pets

Although cats and dogs can provide love and companionship for older adults, they can be a hazard when underfoot. All pets should be vaccinated and house-trained. An in-home caregiver from Visiting Angels Littleton can make sure they are fed and cared for properly.

5. Clutter

Clutter in high-traffic areas can present a significant fall risk for older adults. It’s essential to clear all walking paths. Kitchen countertops and other surfaces should also be free of clutter such as dishes, pots and pans and mail. In-home care providers from Visiting Angels Littleton can lessen clutter and help your loved one avoid a serious household accident.

6. Lack of Bathroom Safety Equipment

A bathroom designed for senior safety is essential. Lack of grab bars, elevated toilet seats, shower seating and non-slip bathmats can increase your loved one’s fall risk. At Visiting Angels Littleton, our caregivers are trained to look for household risks and provide bathroom safety tips.

7. Cords

Long appliance cords and oxygen or IV tubing can pose tripping hazards for older adults. Using power strips or extension cords can cause an electrical overload increasing the chances of a power outage or fire. A trained caregiver from Visiting Angels Littleton can observe and address these hazards before they cause serious harm.

8. Unsafe Home Heating

Using your stove, oven or grill to heat your home can emit carbon monoxide, a deadly gas that you cannot see or smell. Install carbon monoxide detectors near all bedrooms; remember to test and replace the battery twice a year.

9.  Medications

Keep pills in their original bottles so you don’t confuse medications. Your loved one should ask their pharmacist for large-print labels so they’re easier to read, and always take medication in a well-lit room. Use a weekly or monthly pill organizer if needed. Bring all pill bottles to your loved one’s medical appointments to ensure they’re taking them correctly. In addition, our senior caregivers can remind your loved one when it’s time to take their medication and make sure they have the support they need if they experience any side effects that could impact their safety.

 

If you would like to learn more about lessening safety risks in your senior loved one’s home, call Visiting Angels Littleton at 720-410-9430.

Serving Littleton, Highlands Ranch, Centennial, Castle Rock, Parker, Greenwood Village, Evergreen, and Throughout the South Denver Metro Area

Visiting Angels LITTLETON, CO
26 W Dry Creek Cir #820
Littleton, CO 80120
Phone: 720-981-0804
Fax: 720-891-8443

Serving Littleton, Highlands Ranch, Centennial, Castle Rock, Parker, Greenwood Village, Evergreen, and Throughout the South Denver Metro Area

Visiting Angels LITTLETON, CO
26 W Dry Creek Cir #820
Littleton, CO 80120
Phone: 720-981-0804
Fax: 720-891-8443