Staying safe while staying in your home alone

Being independent is one of the most important things for seniors, and living in your own home is a big part of maintaining ones independence and freedom. Plus, often time’s seniors can live much longer, and happier, if they’re able to live in their own home rather than being forced to move into a seniors care facility

There’s a certain peace of mind to spending your retirement in the place you’ve called home for years or even decades. But there are safety concerns that come up with living in your own home into your old age.

In this article, we cover a few basic tips and safety precautions for seniors to follow to continue to live a safe and healthy life.

Maintain Healthy Neighbourly Relationships

Getting to know your neighbors can be mutually beneficial. You’ll both have someone to water the plants, keep porch and sidewalks free of newspapers or clutter, and keep an eye on things when either of you are away. It’s also more likely that if you’re friendly with your neighbours that they’ll be more inclined to alert you if anything suspicious happens around the neighbourhood.

Setup a Weekly Check-in Time with Friends

This is a simple one, but it is very important! If you have a handful of friends, have them check-in with you on different days of the week. Plus, if you constantly have friends checking in on you, you’re more likely to be socially active, which often leads to a longer and happier life.

Secure your Home

Would-be intruders prefer the dark. Well-placed lighting will allow a level of security as well as the appearance of people at home. Having motion-detecting lights installed to cover the entrances to your home can be a major help in protecting your home from potential criminals. Plus, these type of lights will reduce the chances of tripping when you arrive home after dark.

Watch Out for Tripping Hazards

Place non-slip mats at the entryways both inside and out and keep steps and walks shoveled in winter. Install grab bars in washrooms for safety while stepping in and out of the shower, and this one may seem obvious but – keep stairways free of throw rugs. Remove tripping hazards like electrical cords; the hardware or home improvement stores have loads of cord wrapping and organizing ideas.

Remember your Keys

Consider coded locks on entry doors and give the code to one or two trusted individuals only. For traditional locks don’t make more keys than absolutely necessary, and never hide your door key under a mat or planter, those are the first place intruders will look.

Living at home is a great way to stay active and social into your old age. However, as part of living at home, you need to be aware of the things that could cause you challenges as you age. Following these quick tips, as well as looking into other ways to stay safe at home, will be sure to have you living healthy and happy as you grow old in your home.

If you have any concerns or would like some help living more comfortably at home or booking an in home visit, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 1-866-982-2737 and speak with some about setting up an at home care assessment today.