Staying safe at home

At Bluebird Care Gosport, we know that the majority of people would rather stay at home than move into a care home. Making sure your home is a safe, comfortable and a practical place to live is important to being able to live well at home for longer.

As we age, we can sometimes experience a deterioration in mobility, motor skills and struggle with balance affecting our gait. Our normal level of hearing, sight, smell, taste and touch may weaken too. These changes can have an impact on our reactions and how we interact with our environment. Therefore, we have created a list of home safety and security tips for seniors, to make sure you are as comfortable and safe as you can be.  

Home safety tips for elderly people living at home

In the kitchen

Numerous accidents usually happen in the kitchen, yet simple measures can be taken to ensure home safety solutions for the elderly. Measures such as keeping knives and sharp objects correctly stored, using rear hot plates on the stove and tucking away loose clothing when cooking can help you stay safe in the home.

It may seem obvious, but you should never leave cooking unattended and avoid carrying hot liquids any further than needed. A refrigerator door is a suitable place to pin emergency contact information. Be sure to include mobile, work and landline phone numbers for your next of kin, your GP and a list of all medications you currently take.

In the bedroom

The bedroom is also a common place for falls to happen, particularly when getting in and out of bed. So, to ensure home safety and security for elderly people, check the height of your bed and consider installing bed rails or raisers to make it easier to get in and out. It is also recommended to get a fall alarm.

In the living room

Often, falls are caused by a slip or a trip on the same level, for example over a rug. Avoid loose slippery surfaces, and take time to make sure your seated furniture is steady, comfortable and easy to get in and out of. Another idea is to install lever handles on internal doors as they are easier to grasp and use.

In the bathroom

The chance of slipping and falling in the bathroom is greater than other rooms. Slippery floors, awkward toilet seats and manoeuvring in and out of the bath can all pose a risk, especially if you are less mobile or become frail. Installing grab rails near the shower and toilet can help prevent falls, as well as placing a non-slip bathmat to provide more grip.

On the stairs

Stairs are one of the largest risks when it comes to falls due to their height so there are things you can do to improve safety in this area of your home. Make sure there are solid hand rails in place to grab for balance. Ensure the carpet is firmly secured down and remove any rugs. Also, ensure the area is well lit throughout the night and day.

Staying safe outdoors

Make sure not to forget outdoors when it comes to home safety and security for elderly people. Consider installing a sturdy rail at each entrance to the home and add an outside light to guarantee you have the best visibility.