rolling walkers

Products That Can Increase Overall Safety For Seniors

Even the slightest of injuries can drastically change the health and overall well-being of a senior. Some injuries may require modifications throughout the home while more severe injuries may lead to drastic, life changing events such as assisted living or elder care facilities. Fortunately, with today’s technologies and resources, seniors are able to live more safely in their own homes.

At Elderly Safety, our experts research and recommend products that can be implemented into a preventative care plan within the home. Preventing the slip or fall is easier and less costly than facing the physical, emotional, and financial distress of a life altering injury.

Whether you are an active senior who goes to the gym a few times a week or have become less mobile due to health issues, we suggest that seniors consider installing or using the following items in their home to decrease the likelihood of a preventable injury and improve their overall safety and well-being.

Rollator

Rollators or rolling walkers are widely used by people of all ages and abilities and are especially useful in fall prevention. Rollators, unlike the standard non-wheeled walker, is easier to use for people who have difficulty in lifting or have limited mobility or strength and operate well on uneven terrain. Seniors may experience additional benefits from using a rollator:

  • Increased independence in daily tasks, including errands or light housework
  • Is a helpful and safe tool in rebuilding strength and mobility after a slip, fall, injury or surgical procedure

Safety Door Locks

A locked door can be the one thing that keeps your loved one from receiving a severe injury or becoming lost. Seniors, who suffer from memory loss issues such as Alzheimer’s, are vulnerable to “outdoor dangers” such as harsh climates or every day hazards. A safety door lock is often electronic and a code is programmed into a keypad. A caregiver can lock the door, attend to other tasks in the home and not worry about their loved one leaving the security of their home.

Anti-Slip Shower Mat

Any room in the home can be hazardous to an unsteady senior, but a bathroom can be one of the most dangerous places for an elder of any ability. A shower’s surfaces can become slick with even the smallest amount of soap residue, but seniors with balance or mobility issues are more likely to slip in the shower and less likely to get up without help. Anti-slip shower mats offer resistance and can decrease the chance of slipping and falling. Elderly Safety has some tips when searching for the right anti-slip mat:

  • Measure your shower or bathtub for a good fitting mat. Too big or too small can increase hazards, such as tripping or slipping.
  • Make sure the suction/attachment is strong and secure. Don’t use the mat until it’s firmly in place.
  • Keep your mat clean and dry as excess buildup or water can make it unsafe.

Grab Bar for Tubs & Showers

An additional safety feature, great for any bathroom, is a grab bar in the tub or shower. While anti-slip mats can reduce the likelihood of slipping and falling in the bathtub or shower, a grab bar is a safety feature that can increase independence and a sense of security in any senior’s life. Installing a grab bar in a tub and/or shower can make entering and exiting the bathing area less dangerous and scary.