Safety Precautions for the Elderly

Regarding floors and shoes:

• Floors should have even, non-skid surfaces
• Avoid throw rugs
• Large area rugs should be well anchored or have non-skid surfaces
• Wear corrugated or crepe-soled shoes
• Wear firm, supportive shoes, not soft slippers
• Wipe up any spills immediately
• Avoid clutter on floors

Regarding stairs:

• Height of stairs should be uniform and tread should be even and covered with a non-skid surface
• Stairways should always se well-lighted
• Hand rails should be present, placed securely, and easily grasped
• A contrasting color along the edge of the tread can help differentiate the step

Regarding electricity:

• Check the condition of electrical appliances, cords and plugs regularly
• Don’t overload circuits
• Keep electrical appliances away from the bathtub or shower area
• Avoid any non-insulated wiring
• Don’t place cords under carpeting and across walkways

Regarding lighting:

• Lighting should provide even general illumination
• Night lights are helpful to light the way to the bathroom

Regarding the telephone:

• Enlarged or lighted dial can be helpful to see the dial
• Keep the phone within easy reach day or night
• List emergency numbers, including doctor, police, fire department, ambulance nearest neighbor and relative

Regarding bathroom safety:

• Toilet extender and hand rails can help the person who has difficulty getting up
• Place sturdy handrails and skid-proof mats  in the bathtub and shower
• Set the hot water heater no higher than 120 degrees
  

Regarding kitchen safety:

• Avoid wearing long sleeves or loose clothing while cooking
• Clean up any spills immediately
• Keep a fire extinguisher next to the stove
• Controls to the stove should be be easily accessible and readable
• If a step stool is necessary, it should have a wide base of support
• Turn pot handles to the back of the stove

Regarding fire safety:

• Install smoke alarms on each floor of the home
• Alternate exits should be accessible in case of fire
• Never smoke in bed or when sleepy
• Access to outside doorways should be free of obstruction
• Change batteries in smoke alarms twice a year