​Aging in place and Keeping Mom and Dad Safe at Home

Generally, elderly parents want to remain living in their own homes. However, remaining in the home becomes a concern when children see their parents slowing down, perhaps even having trouble with handling stairs and doing general daily activities. Yet, with parents’ mental and physical health currently not creating problems, there seems to be no imminent need to search out support services or other accommodations for aging parents.

Now is the time to evaluate the home, making it safe and secure for your loved ones -- in anticipation of aging disabilities. Where do you begin to make sure your elderly family member is safe and managing well in his or her home?

Visit often and at different times of the day and night. Make note of daily activities that appear challenging and where changes might be made to add safety and convenience. Remove rugs that slide -- causing a fall -- and move furniture with sharp edges. Set the water heater at a lower temperature. This will protect their older sensitive skin from scalds and burns. Be sure smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are in place.

Bathrooms are a hazard area for the elderly. Grab bars by the toilet and shower are a must to help prevent falls. There are easy-to-install bars at your local hardware store if you want to do the work yourself. Another item that is good to have is a shower stool or chair.

Home safety or medical alert companies provide GPS-based bracelets or pendants to track the elderly at home who tend to wander. Or the companies may provide alarm devices such as pendants or bracelets which allow the elderly to alert someone if there has been a fall or a sudden health-related attack. In the event an alarm has been triggered, a 24-hour monitoring service will alert the family or medical emergency services or call a neighbor. In addition, there are companies that will install motion sensors in the home. Also, purchase a pill dispenser that notifies you when it is time to take medication.

Don’t forget your parents’ community as a valuable resource for helping them stay in their home. Take Margaret Muller as an example. At 82 years of age, Margaret lives alone in her small home. She manages very well with the help of our Elder Care Management service. The Care manager sees that Margaret is taken to the store for groceries and other needs and checks in with her often to see how she is doing. Once a day, the care manager coordinates delivery of a hot healthy meal to her door. Having this kind of service and visits gives Margaret the help she needs and peace of mind that she is not alone.