Aging presents unique problems, and safety is one of the most pressing concerns for seniors. While home modifications, such as grab bars, non-slip flooring, and proper lighting, are essential for reducing risks, in-home companion care can encourage seniors to take additional proactive actions to maintain a safer living environment.
Stay Physically Active
Maintaining strength, balance, and flexibility can help reduce falls, which are the primary cause of injury among seniors. Yoga, Tai Chi, and mild strength exercises can help improve mobility and stability.
Many community centers provide senior fitness courses targeted at various ability levels, or companion care providers can help seniors find videos to follow along with.
Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS)
Seniors can call for assistance in the event of a fall or emergency by simply pressing a button on a PERS device. These wearable devices frequently feature GPS tracking, fall detection, and direct communication with emergency services, which adds an added degree of security.
Schedule Regular Health Checkups
Vision issues, hearing impairments, and side effects from medication can all play a role in accidents. Regular appointments with doctors, ophthalmologists, and audiologists ensure that seniors are in good health and using the proper equipment, such as glasses or hearing devices.
Companion care providers can help seniors who no longer drive get to and from these appointments.
Establish a Social Safety Net
Isolation is a significant concern for seniors, especially where emergencies are concerned. With this in mind, seniors should create a communication routine with their friends, family, and neighbors, such as a daily phone call, text check-in, or scheduled visit, which can all help ensure their well-being.
Of course, having consistent interaction with companion care at home is another way to ensure their safety.
Be Mindful About Scams
Scammers frequently target seniors through phone calls and emails. Family members and companion care professionals can remind them never to give out personal information over the phone and to verify unknown callers. They can also inform them about typical scams.
Additionally, signing up for fraud alerts and credit monitoring can also help.
Prepare for Emergencies
Natural disasters, power outages, and medical situations can happen at any time. Seniors can prepare for these events by developing an emergency plan. This includes a way to access necessary medications and emergency contacts, as well as having a bag packed with essentials, such as water, a flashlight, and important documents.
Also, seniors should be reminded to maintain a charged cell phone.
Use Smart Technology for Increased Safety
Voice-activated assistants, motion sensor lighting, and video doorbells are all examples of smart home technologies that can improve both security and convenience. Not only that, remote monitoring devices allow family members to look in on seniors for additional peace of mind.
Hire Help
It is essential for seniors who require assistance with daily tasks to choose reliable in-home companion care providers. Background checks, referrals, and professionals vetted by a reputable agency all contribute to dependable support.
Seniors can improve their safety and independence by going above and beyond home modifications. Companion care can help with this, offering much-needed support as well as encouraging seniors to take the necessary steps to improve their safety.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Companion Care in Bethany, CT, please contact the caring staff at Talem Home Care & Placement Services of New Haven, CT, today. Call (203) 538-6273
At Talem Home Care & Placement Services of Fort Hartford, CT, we provide passionate, understanding, and flexible caregivers in New Haven, Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Bethany, Cheshire, Derby, Milford, Naugatuck, Orange, Prospect, Seymour, Shelton, Stratford, Trumbull, West Haven, Woodbridge, and Woodmont and surrounding areas in Connecticut.
Sources:
- https://www.healthinaging.org/a-z-topic/prevention/lifestyle
- https://www.ncoa.org/article/how-older-adults-can-improve-their-personal-cyber-security/
- https://www.securityinfowatch.com/residential-technologies/article/55136043/the-smart-money-technology-for-independent-living
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