If you, or perhaps a parent or loved one are starting to get older, you might be a little concerned about health and safety, and what you need to be on the lookout for.
The harsh reality is that older adults are more vulnerable in many ways. They’re more susceptible to illnesses and injuries, and they’re also more vulnerable to external dangers. This means that there’s a lot to think about.
But don’t let this stress you out – there are plenty of ways in which you can take care of your (or your loved one’s) health and safety and live stress-free and comfortably. Here are some tips to keep in mind on the topic.
Prepare for Emergencies
The saying goes, “if you fail to plan, you plan to fail” and it’s applicable in so many different circumstances, including this one! Being aware of the fact that emergencies happen is important, because it allows you to be as prepared as possible for something to come up.
When it comes to medical emergencies, you always want to make sure you have access to assistance, which can be tricky when it comes to older adults living alone. This is where a medical alert system can literally be a lifesaver. Certain medical alert systems also use a lightweight help button to help seniors get in contact with emergency services in the blink of an eye.
Upgrade the Security
Investing in really good home security for seniors is crucial. Older adults often feel more vulnerable to attacks on their homes and worry about what they might do in the event of an attempted break-in.
Having your home security up to standard should eliminate most of this worry and further protect your home from intruders. Installing cameras and an alarm system should allow for any threats to be dealt with before they become a serious issue for your safety.
Prevent Slips and Falls
Slipping and falling when you’re in your golden years can be scary. As we age, our bone density naturally declines which means that we become more susceptible to fractures and breaks – which is the last thing a retired person wants to deal with!
Making sure that your home is safe is important in this regard. Remove any rugs or mats that might be tripped over, ensure that floors aren’t of the slippery kind (and that they’re always clean and dry), and consider installing ramps or railings where there are steps or other niggly areas.
Modify the Home
More than just slippery floors, there are loads of home modifications that can make a senior’s home safer and easier to navigate.
For example, a shower standing handle can help prevent shower slips, or installing a walk-in tub could make the entire bathing process much easier, safer, and more comfortable. You might consider installing a bed railing and even just improving the lighting in certain rooms. Remember that small changes can make a huge difference.
Double Check Medicine Intake
Another important health and safety hazard comes in the form of medicine. If you or a loved one is on any medication, it’s important to be aware of the correct dosage, timing, and other specifications.
Taking too much, or even too little of your medication at the wrong time could have serious implications. If you struggle to remember, make sure to write it down somewhere it’s easy to read, and set reminders on your smartphone.
Pay Close Attention to Lifestyle Habits
Living a healthy lifestyle becomes extra important the older you get. This means that diet and exercise habits shouldn’t simply go down the drain after you retire!
Eating a balanced, healthy diet is important for keeping your bones, muscles, and the rest of your body performing at their best for years to come. Focusing on simple things like fruits and vegetables, lean meats and healthy fats is the best plan of action.
Exercise also plays a vital role in overall health and shouldn’t be ignored. Hitting the gym when you’re older isn’t always possible though, so remember that simple daily walks and stretches are more than enough.
Final Thoughts
These six tips won’t necessarily make your life perfectly safe and simple. However, if you make sure you’re addressing each of these six factors, you’ll be able to take the weight off your shoulders knowing that you’re taking care of yourself or your loved one.
Sometimes, making small and simple changes can make a serious difference in your life, and you’ll wonder why you never thought of them in the first place.