Housing...Inside and Out

July 9, 1999
Home Safety For The Geriatric Set

Statistics show a disproportionate share of accidents lead to the injury of older people. The sense of balance alters and the need to step more cautiously and run less frequently are important safety considerations for the elderly. Some other general tips include:

Take your time: Don't rush for anything. Tell your friends who may telephone to allow enough rings for you to answer without hurrying. "Popping out of bed", getting up too quickly from a chair and trying to carry too many things at once are "hurry up" situations that can cause falls.

Room arrangements: The home should be a safe haven. Plan room arrangements so traffic lanes are clear.

Make sure your stairways are clutter free. Also, close all drawers and cabinet doors to avoid bumps and bruises. Do not lift heavy furnishings or try to move them about. Have someone help in rearranging the kitchen utensils, food supplies, cleaning products, linens and other items of this nature for easier access.

Lighting: Don't walk around in the dark. Be sure there is a nearby light source at entrances to rooms and stairways and also use the handrails. Nightlights are advisable in the bedroom, bath and hallways. Eyes do not adjust quickly from darkness to light or the reverse. Therefore, wait until your vision is clear before you proceed.

Kitchen safety: Work carefully. It is easier and less tiring to assemble needed items before starting to cook or clean up. Be sure there is adequate light. Promptly wash and dry floor areas spattered with grease or where food or liquid has spilled. A slippery floor is an invitation to a fall.

When cooking, avoid wearing wide sleeves or trailing sashes. Such clothing may catch on pots and pans or ignite from burners. Turn your pot handles toward the center of the range. Protect your hands and wrists with heat resistant, well-padded mitts and potholders. Be sure your grip is firm before lifting cooking utensils containing hot food or liquid.

Always raise the pan lids away from the face and hands to avoid escaping steam. Eyeglass wearers should also stand to the side or avert the face when opening the door of a hot oven. This way the heat that is emitted in the first few minutes cannot fog your eyeglasses.

For hand washing, handle your dishes and glassware piece by piece to avoid breakage. If your grip is not strong, wear protective rubber gloves that have textured fingers. If anything should break, drain away your water before removing the broken pieces from the sink or the pan. Use a damp towel to pick up bits of china or glass.

Be careful when using knives to select the proper size for the job. It is wise to store knives separately from other utensils. Do not place sharp knives in a sink or dishpan of sudsy water since you may be cut. Wash each piece individually. When washing and drying, keep the sharp edge away from the hand.

In the bathroom: A relaxing tub bath or tingling shower is a daily pleasure. However, the bathroom is a source of potential problems. Consider the use of safety devices to minimize accidents.

If the tub or shower stall does not have a built-in slip resistant surface, there are many adhesive backed strips that are decorative as well as functional. You might also use a bath mat. Consider installing handgrips as an aid to getting in and out of the tub. A handgrip by the toilet may also be useful.

Assemble all your grooming supplies. Be sure the holders for soap and other grooming supplies are placed within easy reach. Groping for a face towel or face cloth after lathering up can be a problem. Also, remember to avoid breakable tumblers, soap dishes and other accessories.

When using electrical grooming aids, always use caution and follow the instructions. Remember, electricity and water do not mix. Never place a radio or other electrical appliance near the bathtub or touch it with wet hands.

Mark medications clearly and large enough to read. Use the original containers and never mix different tablets or capsules. Keep external and internal medications separate. As an added protection, place a distinctive bold marking on those for external use only. Keep products used regularly in an accessible spot and take medications only in a well-lit room. Be sure to always read the label carefully before using a medication.

If climbing is necessary, be sure a ladder or step stool is sturdy and well balanced. Do not reach more than half an arm's length to fix, paint, pick up or put away an object.

Keep electrical cords in good repair and not where they can cause tripping. Keep working flashlights on hand and use them instead of matches, lighters or candles if it is necessary to look for something in a darkened area, such as in closets or in cabinets.

Also, plan one or two escape routes from your home in case of a fire. Practice using these escape routes. Be sure you have telephone numbers at hand, such as police, fire department, doctor, ambulance and utility company in case of an emergency.


Written by Dr. Francis Graham (Retired)

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