Ensuring safety and security for your elderly relatives

Taking care of your elderly relatives is something that people rarely think of or plan for. Many people think of their parents as indestructible and so it can be hard to see them need your help. Worse than this it can be tough if you don’t really know what to do. There are lots of things that you can do for your relatives when they start to age that won’t rob them of their independence and will still make sure that they are safe. Here is a list of things that you can do just to get you started before you tailor their care to them. 

Medical systems

A handy gadget you can get installed in your senior relative’s house is a mobile medical alert system. This will keep track of your relatives’ vitals and health. When something goes wrong, it will alert you and the nearest medical emergency services to ensure quick and speedy aid is given. This can make all the difference to someone who is older. They are a tad expensive, but it means that you can rest easy when you are at work or away from them knowing that you will be alerted if something goes wrong. 

Bathroom modifications

One of the most dangerous rooms in the home, especially for a senior member of the family, is the bathroom. It is full of slips and trips with the added danger that everything is usually wet and slippery. However, don’t fear you don’t need to make huge adjustments to the bathroom to make it safer. You can install a waterproof seat in the shower and a raised toilet seat with grab handles to help them get on and off. These simple changes can go a long way to making things safer. 

Rugs

This may not be something that people want to get rid of, but rugs are a trip hazard, especially for those who struggle with their mobility. This is really true of those that needed a walking stick or walking frame. You should discuss removing rugs as they are a real trip and slip hazard. If this is not an option, then you can perhaps secure the edges so that they are pinned down and are less of a threat. 

Create a support network 

This is something that you need to establish. Not only will it take the pressure off of you but ensure that if an accident does occur someone will be able to make their way over to your relatives. However, don’t feel that you are limited to just your friends and family. There are often local networks that provide emergency services if you cannot be a full-time carer. Investigate these as an option to provide that extra security for your relatives.

Making things safer

Getting older happens to us all. it can be easy to look at your relatives and try and smother them with protection. However, you can make slight changes to their lifestyle to make sure that they can continue to have a good quality of life without feeling like a burden.