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 How to Improve the Safety of your Home for Elderly Relatives  
Everybody gets old - it's a simple fact that can be hard to face. The truth is, muscles and bones get weaker and the home can slowly become a dangerous place. However, making some minor modifications is a very easy process. Eldercare begins with you.

By John George

Everybody gets old - it's a simple fact that can be hard to face. The truth is that muscles and bones get weaker and the home can slowly become a dangerous place. However, making some minor modifications to keep your loved ones safe is a very easy process. Eldercare begins with you.

Improving Safety Indoors

You cannot always prevent falls, but there are many things you can do to help avert them. Here are a few ideas:

  • Clear floors of clutter - The majority of falls come from having a messy house. Be sure to keep all floors clear. The less of a struggle it is to move around the home, the less the chance of falling. Make sure things are within reach as well.

  • Well-lit rooms - Just as important as having clear floors, make sure things are illuminated well enough so that you can see the floors are clear. Keep plenty of flashlights around for blackouts, too.

  • Safety railings - Grab bars and safety railings can be installed all around the house. Be sure to fix them to the bathtub and next to the toilet. Bed railings can also help keep your loved ones from falling out of bed at night.

  • Non-Slip mats - Place non-slip mats underneath rugs and be sure to use them in the bathtub and on stairs.

    Improving Safety Outdoors

    Being safe outdoors is just as important as being safe in your home, but there is not as much you can do to prevent danger. Make sure you assist your loved one by holding their arm when walking. If any roads or sidewalks become wet or icy, be sure to salt or sand them. Using a cane for any uneven ground is also advised.

    What to do if They do Fall

    Not all falls can be prevented, accidents happen. When they do, the first thing you should do is keep calm. If you panic, you will cause your loved one to panic as well. If they are not able to get up, cover them with a blanket until help arrives.

    Overall, you cannot prevent every fall, accident, or slip. You can, however, avert the majority of them. The home is the place where your loved ones will probably spend the most time, so it is the first place you should start. Eldercare begins with you!


    About the Author:

    John George is from the Caregiving Resources website, which provides eldercare information and services. Article Source: 1st Rate Articles - http://1stRateArticles.com


  •   Article added 08/09/07.

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