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When an older adult chooses to live at home, it’s essential to recognize that many living environments aren’t designed to support the changing needs that come with aging. Fortunately, there are many ways to address safety and mobility concerns. Specializing in home care services for seniors, Visiting Angels in Toms River, NJ, highlights a few tasks to add to your safety checklist for independent living.

5 Things You Should Do to Create a Safe Environment for Independent Living

1. Clear Out Clutter

Common signs of aging include the loss of bone health and balance, increasing the risk of fall injuries. For that reason, it’s essential to remove anything that may cause a tripping hazard. For example, keep floors as open and clear as possible by putting away cords, removing rugs, and replacing bath mats with slip-resistant options.

independent living2. Install Grab Bars

In the event a senior does lose their footing in the home, it can help to have grab bars installed to make standing up easier. These are particularly important in the bathroom and should be installed along the shower and next to the toilet.

3. Reorganize Cabinets

To prevent unnecessary reaching that could cause injury, reevaluate home storage, especially in the kitchen area. For example, move dishes and tools that are used regularly to cabinet shelves that don’t require reaching.

4. Maintain Heaters & Air Conditioners

Heat strokes and hypothermia are among the leading causes of illness and injury among seniors in America. This often happens when older adults live alone at home and are not equipped with a reliable climate control system during extreme temperatures. To prevent the need for repairs, have heaters and air conditioners serviced annually.

5. Invest in a Medical Alert System

From falls to heart attacks, emergencies can happen in an instant, leaving a person with little time to get help. Rather than worrying about getting to a phone during these events, seniors can gain peace of mind when they have a medical alert system at their side. These devices are worn on the body and will alert emergency services with a simple press of a button if a medical emergency occurs.

While these tips can improve senior safety at home, it’s important to recognize the need for extra assistance when necessary. If you or a loved one wants to enjoy independent living but face mobility or medical obstacles, the home care specialists at Visiting Angeles in Toms River, NJ, will help. Focused on providing custom, comfortable, and adjustable care, this team provides assistance to ease a senior’s life at home, whether they are checking on medication needs or helping with chores around the house. Visit them online to learn more about their comprehensive services, and call (732) 240-1050 to learn more about your options today.

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