It’s perfectly normal for adult children to worry about the safety of their aging loved ones, especially if they live at home alone. While routine visits and weekly or daily calls can provide you with peace of mind to a certain extent, there are also a handful of products on the market that can make a senior’s home a safer place. Here’s a list of the top safety products that benefit older adults.
Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) places smoke and carbon monoxide detectors at the top of their checklist for elderly home safety. If your loved one has impaired hearing, special models are available that use strobe lights to alert of danger. These models can go a long way toward providing seniors and their loved ones with peace of mind.
If you’re concerned about your loved one’s ability to safely live at home alone, consider hiring a professional caregiver. Many older adults are choosing to age in place, and some need a helping hand to continue living at home safely and comfortably. Luckily, there are professional homecare services seniors can trust and rely on.
Geri-Sleeve Arm Protector
Most people are unaware of Geri-sleeve arm protectors, which are designed specifically to protect sensitive skin from scratches and tears. Often made of a breathable cotton blend, they’re comfortable and easy to clean. Medline makes one of the most highly rated versions, with multiple styles and colors available.
Anti-Slip Tape
This type of tape is intended for easy application wherever you need a strong grip for standing or walking, such as on steps, ramps, and ladders. While industrial options are available, 3M makes several varieties. Outdoor and indoor options are comfortable for bare feet and allow you to customize your surfaces.
One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide in-home care. Arlington families can turn to Assisting Hands Home Care for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties.
Grab Bars
Grab bars offer extra help going down stairs or getting in and out of the bathtub. While grab bars offer numerous benefits to seniors, they’re especially helpful for aging adults who have recently undergone surgery or been hospitalized. Grab bars are often a part of a post-hospital care plan to promote a safe and fast recovery.
Anti-Scald Showerhead
The CPSC recommends turning water heaters down to 120 degrees. If adjusting the water heater isn’t an option, an anti-scald showerhead reduces the flow of water to a trickle when temperatures get too high and automatically restarts when the temperature cools.
These devices can enhance safety and quality of life for seniors, and so can having trained caregivers close by. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality elder care. Arlington families trust Assisting Hands Home Care to help their elderly loved ones age in place safely and comfortably. If you need professional care for your loved one, reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (703) 988-1800.
