{"id":882,"date":"2018-03-02T22:40:30","date_gmt":"2018-03-02T22:40:30","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.sacramentohandyman.com\/blog\/?p=882"},"modified":"2024-07-05T11:41:17","modified_gmt":"2024-07-05T11:41:17","slug":"home-safety-tips-for-sacramento-seniors","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sacramentohandyman.com\/blog\/home-safety-tips-for-sacramento-seniors\/","title":{"rendered":"Home Safety Tips For Sacramento Seniors"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Home<\/a>Due to the growing popularity of in-home care for seniors, it’s important to make sure you and your elder loved one are aware of the potential dangers present in the home to prepare accordingly. You can help prevent falls and accidents by making changes to unsafe areas in the home. These tips can help you in caring for your loved one and provide peace of mind.<\/p>\n

General Home Safety<\/h4>\n

As you walk throughout the house, focus on the main areas that are navigated through. The house should be free from clutter with adequate lighting and night light. Also, walkways must free and clear so as not to cause falls. Another fall hazard is pets. While pets make for great companions, they can unintentionally cause trips. Lastly, and importantly, throw rugs need to be removed from the home (or at least use 2-sided tape to hold down the edges). Throw rugs are the #1 reason people over 65 visit the emergency room! Of those, 30% will have an extended stay.<\/p>\n

Shield Against Wrongdoing<\/h4>\n

It goes without saying, but never let a stranger come inside when alone. If a salesperson approaches, whether on the phone or in person, talk over offers with a trusted friend or family member and do not feel that you must buy what is being sold.<\/p>\n

Seniors have all kinds of people going through their houses (contractors, plumbers, friends, neighbors, etc.) therefore only keep enough narcotic medications on hand for a one-week supply. The rest should be stored in a safe location away from visitors. Firearms are another item that needs to be under lock and key. As a cop friend of mine used to say: \u201cLocks are for keeping honest people honest\u201d.<\/p>\n

Protect Against Fire & Related Dangers<\/h4>\n

Appliances with frayed and damaged cords can easily cause a fire, so check them regularly and make sure the socket and\/or extension cord is not overwhelmed with too many cords.<\/p>\n

A smoke detector needs to be in each bedroom, areas adjacent to bedrooms, and on each floor of the house. The alarms should be inspected regularly and batteries changed twice a year. During cooking, do not wear loose clothing or clothing that has long sleeves. A fire extinguisher needs to be placed in the kitchen and inside the garage door leading from the house. Lastly,<\/p>\n

Place fire extinguishers in the kitchen and inside the garage door leading from the house.<\/p>\n

Write a list of emergency numbers and keep them beside each phone. Make sure the print is large enough to be easily readable. Make sure to have numbers for:<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n