Aging is an area of increasing awareness, so much so that the United Nations has created the global collaboration effort, the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021-2030). One of the major action areas is “age-friendly environments,” creating spaces that allow seniors to “continue to do the things they value.”
You can create age-friendly environments in your own spaces by following these six tips for senior health and safety!
6 Safety Tips for Seniors
- Take steps to mitigate fall risk.
According to the CDC, falls are the number one cause of injury and death from injury among older Americans. Keep yourself safe and steady by reducing the risk of falls. You can do this many ways. Consider the following ideas:
- Exercise regularly to maintain your strength
- Stand up slowly to avoid dizziness
- Use caution on stairways and employ handrails and anti-slip treads
- Ensure adequate lighting so you can always see where you’re going
- Have your vision checked regularly
- Use night lights
- Store commonly used items in easy-to-reach places
- Always wear shoes with traction
- Put anti-slip mats in the bathroom
- Use extra caution in winter and allow others to help you clear snow and ice
- Medicate safely.
Make sure your prescriptions are up-to-date and that you are carefully following all instructions. Ask your pharmacist for large print labels.
- Take advantage of technology and hardware.
Consider using senior safety devices like the following:
- Wearable alarm devices
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Bathing chairs
- Raised toilet seats with handlebars
- Maintain easy access to emergency numbers.
Always know where to quickly find emergency numbers. This includes emergency contacts, your physician, emergency services, and Poison Control.
- Do little things to make life easier.
Adapt your surroundings to rid yourself of potential problems. Use single lever door handles rather than round knobs to make doors easier to open. Sleep on a firm mattress to give yourself more support and stabilization.
- Be wary of scams and abuse.
Keep your doors and windows locked. Discuss telephone offers with people you trust. Do not share your personal information with strangers. Don’t feel pressured to make purchases, donate, or sign contracts.
Following these simple steps will help you increase your safety so your golden years can be long and joyful. Have fun and stay safe!
At Celebrate Senior Living, we are committed to celebrating the moments, victories, and memories that will last a lifetime for our residents and their loved ones. We are a Midwest-based foundation that serves Illinois and Indiana residents by offering Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Skilled Nursing living options.
If you or a loved one are interested in senior living options, schedule a tour with us today! You can also learn more by exploring our communities, which include South Holland, Niles, and Fort Wayne, or by contacting us with any other questions!
