Tips to Stay Safe at Home
Assess Mobility Needs in and Around the Home:
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Remove trip hazards.
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De-clutter, remove loose carpeting/rugs, or secure with double-sided rug tape.
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Mark any steps or changes in floor level with tape or paint in a high-contrast color.
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Remove or secure any electrical or cable cords.
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Are stair rails secure and/or weight bearing?
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Assess the need for mobility ramps or stair-lifts.
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Do any doorways need to be widened for wheelchair/walkers?
Bathroom Safety and Accessibility:
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Does the shower/tub area need grab bars installed?
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Would the individual benefit from a shower chair or a transfer bench?
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Does the toilet need a surround rail or riser?
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Turn water heater down to reduce scald risk.
Communication:
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Would a doorbell camera or intercom be useful?
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Do they have a way to keep a phone with them at all times?
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Would a personal alert system be appropriate?
General Safety and Convenience Considerations:
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Store items within reach, do they need a reacher/grabbing device?
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Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, set a maintenance schedule to check and change batteries.
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Ensure home has adequate lighting.
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Do any areas need a non-slip mat?
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Replace standard doorknobs with lever handles.
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Do any stairways need non-skid treads?
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Ask your Home Health Care company if they can perform a Home Safety Assessment.
Note: The information in this article is general in nature; it is not intended as medical advice or a substitute for obtaining medical advice. Frontier Medical makes no representation for the accuracy of information contained herein. The information provided does not override the manufacturer's recommendations or directions to maintain the equipment as described in the manufacturer's directions for use.
