Thu. 8th Dec. 2016
Safety is an issue for all of us as we enter the holiday and winter season. There are some unique and well-recognized risks for seniors.
Five examples follow with recommendations for minimizing the risks.
- Holiday decorations can be dangerous for seniors. There may be trip and fall hazards from extension and light cords. Beaware of frayed wires and overloaded light sockets that can cause fires. The senior with dementia is at particular risk due to their inability to recognize the risks.
- With cold weather here, it is important to make sure that furnaces are in good repair and working safely. Install carbon monoxide monitors and change batteries with the season. The ability for seniors to manage their body temperature changes as we age. Space heaters and ovens may be used for additional warmth adding to the risk.
- Scammers are on the rise, especially with seniors. The seniors are easy prey and may either be embarrassed to admit they were taken advantage of or may not even know that they were duped if they have cognitive impairment. Monitor finances and report issues to the police quickly.
- The kitchen may not be safe for a senior. The kitchen is the heart of a home and seniors may be aware of the risks. Use of knives and sharp objects can cause lacerations. Using step stools, ladders, and chairs to reach items that are only used for parties or the Holidays may lead to falls. Slips and falls occur due to spills while preparing food. Burns can happen when the senior does not recognize a flame or the retained heat from an electric burner. Clothing and kitchen linens can be ignited by a lack of awareness. Have a fire extinguisher in the home near the kitchen.
- With snow and ice, slips and falls are a more common occurrence. Make sure that snow is pushed away, and walkways are salted to minimize icy conditions. Make sure that there are snow shovels to clear walks and drives. Use caution when removing snow because of the risk of injury and heart attack due the physical stress required.
None of us want to acknowledge that we are aging. These issues are of particular concern for seniors due to their changing condition and ability. Contact me if you have concerns about the safety of your loved one.