Home » Safety & Fall Prevention
Category:

Safety & Fall Prevention

Fall Prevention Tips

IS A CANE A GOOD SOLUTION FOR ME?

by Jeffrey Dailey
written by Jeffrey Dailey

Curious if a cane might be beneficial for you? Well, the answer isn’t always straightforward since the reasons for using a cane can vary widely. Some may find temporary relief after an accident, injury, or surgery, while others might require regular assistance due to aging, arthritis, disabilities, or persistent mobility issues. It’s a choice that often gets postponed or avoided, but considering the advantages of using a cane, it becomes evident that it’s a smart and healthy option for both short-term and long-term needs.

Consider these questions to gauge whether a cane might suit your situation:

  1. Do you walk freely and comfortably daily?
  2. Can you walk without experiencing daily pain?
  3. Do you fear falling or getting injured while walking?
  4. Do you struggle with balance or stability while walking?
  5. Do you often find yourself holding onto furniture for support as you move around your home?
  6. Are stairs a challenge for you to navigate?
  7. Have concerns about the above affected your mobility?
  8. If you’ve answered yes to any of these questions, incorporating a cane into your routine could be greatly beneficial, whether temporarily or on a regular basis.

Using a cane offers numerous advantages:

  1. Assists in walking more normally by reducing strain on sore or weaker limbs.
  2. Helps prevent unnecessary injuries that could lengthen recovery time.
  3. Supports weight and prevents strain on other parts of the body, aiding overall balance.
  4. Promotes mobility, activity, and independence.
  5. Assists in navigating stairs safely.
  6. Reduces pain, boosts confidence, and enhances balance while walking.
  7. May delay the necessity for surgery by reducing stress on affected joints.

Choosing a cane is a wise decision. Consider exploring the Handy Cane, an award-winning walking aid that includes a built-in reaching grabber. The Handy Cane offers the benefits of a traditional cane while assisting in picking up items ranging from small coins to larger jars or bottles that might be out of reach. Even if used temporarily, the Handy Cane provides high-quality support and versatility for daily needs. Take a closer look at this invaluable aid!

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Home Improvements

10 Simple Bedroom Safety Updates Help Seniors Age in Place

by Jeff Dailey
written by Jeff Dailey

The dangers in the bedroom
It’s easy for seniors to fall in the bedroom, especially when getting in or out of bed. Or, when getting dressed.
These, and other hazards, make the bedroom another room that would benefit from safety updates.

Safer bedrooms help seniors maintain independence
It’s important to make sure the rooms where seniors spend a lot of time are as safe as possible. Preventing falls is one of the best ways to help older adults stay independent.

10 easy bedroom safety updates

  1. Make it easier to turn lights on and off by making any bedside lamp touch activated. Use removable mounting strips to attach the touch sensor in a convenient place.
  2. Use an automatic LED night light so it’s easy to find and turn on the bedside lamp when getting up at night.
  3. Place a sturdy chair in the bedroom so your older adult can sit while dressing to prevent falls.
  4. Remove any throw rugs, electrical wires, or clutter from the floor to prevent tripping and falling.
  5. Clean and organize closets and drawers so frequently used items are within easy reach — avoid storing anything too high or too low.
  6. Make sure the bed is at the correct height so it’s easy to get in and out. Place the box spring on the floor if it’s too high or use inexpensive bed lifts if it’s too low.
  7. Consider adding a simple bed rail or a no-installation floor to ceiling grab bar next to the bed to help with getting up.
  8. Install an easy-to-use phone by the bed and post important phone numbers in large print.
  9. Make sure a smoke detector is installed on or near the ceiling. Get one with 10 year battery and low false alarm rate for low maintenance.
  10. Use a passive monitoring system like Evermind to discreetly monitor the bedside lamp. It lets you know that your senior’s usual routine is going smoothly and gives an added layer of safety.

About Daily Caring
Get free , practical advice that helps you care for your older adult. Our free website and email newsletter have the most useful caregiving and aging tips and resources. Visit DailyCaring.com today!

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Fall Prevention Tips

3 Rolling Walkers You Need to Cover Every Situation

by Kimberly Johnson
written by Kimberly Johnson

At Senior.com we are often asked, “Which rollator (rolling walker) is the best one to buy?” That’s a complicated question because one rollator will not solve all mobility issues. Just like young parents usually own multiple strollers for their kids for different circumstances, we would like to suggest you own these 3 products to prevent falls and give you the freedom you deserve.

4-Wheel Rollator with a Seat for Getting Out

If you want to freely move in the community, a 4-wheel rollator with a seat is the best choice. You could select a standard rollator that will do the job or a premium rollator for more comfort.

Nova Star 8″ Wheels

Standard 4-Wheel Option: NOVA Star with 8” Wheels

The Nova Star Series are great lightweight rollators with a nice smooth ride. They are available in both 6″ Wheels & 8″ Wheels, but we recommend the larger wheels to maneuver curbs and uneven walkways easier. These rollators have a large range of height adjustability and features the new lightweight 14-lb frame. (Bariatric is 19.5 lbs.) We like the way it folds easily with a push button and has locking hand brakes. They come in a variety of colors. This is a terrific value for getting around with a convenient seat so you can rest anytime, anywhere

 

Premium 4-Wheel Option: Triumph Mobility Escape Rollator

Triumph Mobility Premium

If you are looking for a little more style and comfort, the Triumph Mobility Escape Rollator is a classic European design. The Escape is available in 3 seat heights to fit almost any user and has a compact folding system that is easy to fold with a simple lift of the release handle. This design makes it easier to lift into the trunk of a car but, as an added benefit, it also stands when folded for easy storage when not in use.

Escape features a large padded seat for added comfort, pressure reducing anatomical handgrips to maintain your hand strength and the easiest to apply hand brakes available on any walker. In addition, Escape offers a depth adjustable large padded backrest, spring loaded levers for easy handle height adjustment and innovative Gentle Touch braking system with no cables to catch on objects or get in your way.

Mighty Mack Bariatric

500 lbs. Bariatric 4-Wheel Option: Mighty Mack

The strongest and mightiest of all rollators is the Mighty Mack! It has a 500-pound weight capacity and a standard seat height for average to tall users. The Mighty Mack comes with 8″ rugged wheels, an extra wide seat with a built-in seat pad, locking hand brakes, a front wire basket, and a removable back. The sleek frame is so easy to fold.

3-Wheel Rollator for Indoors and Small Spaces

The biggest complaint about a 4-wheel rollator is that it is not easy to maneuver in small spaces. So, if you are using a rollator to get from your bed to the bathroom, a 3-wheel option is absolutely the best choice. We always recommend using a 3-wheel walker inside your home to get around furniture, thick carpet, narrow doorways or hallways etc. If you don’t have a rollator that is easy to maneuver, you will opt not to use it. Just one fall can be a huge set-back to your health, independence and finances. I can’t tell you how often we hear that Mom or Dad fell in the bathroom because they weren’t using their rollator because it was too difficult in the small space. It was sitting OUTSIDE the bathroom. Resolve this safety hazard with a 3- wheel rollator.

3-Wheel Nova Traveler

Traveler 3 Wheel Nova Rollator

The Traveler 3 Wheel Walker is perfect for maneuvering indoors around furniture and in tight places like a bathroom. It features NOVA’s easy to use locking hand brakes, a tray, basket, pouch and 8” rugged wheels, and is foldable for easy transport and storage. When relying on a cane in the home, falls can easily occur when a foot catches or balance is off. We like how the traveler 3-wheel rollator has a tray for food or drinks and a basket for other belongings. This frees hands to steady your balance so you can move freely in your home.

 

Why Do You Need Both a 3-Wheel and a 4-Wheel Rollator?

One reason we recommend owning both the 4-wheel and the 3-wheel, is the 4-wheel has a seat so you can sit down anywhere when tired. Often you are not near a chair and your 4-wheel rollator gives you that security. In addition, a 4-wheel rollator is maximum comfort for going outside, shopping, or to an event. The 3-wheel rollator would be left at home for indoor use in those tight spaces.

Lastly, We Recommend the EZ Fold and Go Rollator

EZ Fold and Go Rollator

Just like young parents appreciate the umbrella stroller for quick trips, the EZ Fold and Go Rollator is the perfect solution when a caregiver is taking someone to the doctors. It’s only 8 lbs and folds compact.

The unique, patented design allows the EZ Fold-N-Go Walker to fold up to a 7-inch diameter with the touch of a finger, just like an umbrella stroller. It’s perfect for traveling, going to the store, eating at a restaurant, or just maneuvering those tight spaces around the house.

Gone are the days when you have to find space for the bulky walker or rollator in the trunk of the car. Now you can keep it next to you in the front seat!

These are some of our favorite products to recommend. However, you can shop Senior.com for hundreds of mobility solutions from all the top brands. If you are a veteran or active in the military, we offer a 5% lifetime discount! Senior.com always offers FREE SHIPPING on 99% of our listed products within the continental United States.

Remember, Age Well. Shop Smart.

 

 

 

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Age-In-Place

Data Shows Susceptible Seniors Living Alone

by Carol Marak
written by Carol Marak

Nearly ninety percent of the senior citizens across the U.S. prefer to age in place and grow old at home. Professionals believe that’s the place where people can afford to live over other costly places like nursing homes. But even staying home raises concerns, like the ones that block healthy aging. The most significant are lack of transportation, affordable housing, and isolation.

When adults have little access to shopping and social activity, isolation becomes a high risk factor that plays havoc on their health. Here’s what few seniors from my Facebook group says about aging at home with little support and connection — the comments illustrate the challenges.

“Budget, transportation, and health are the main causes of my isolation. I had to give up driving because of severe glaucoma. Also, having a rare autoimmune disease makes me exhausted most of the time.”

“Loneliness and isolation are a real problem. Our culture is different than most Asian and Latin cultures where no older person has to worry about being alone.”

What’s troubling when studying the U.S. Census, is the high numbers of older residents living alone. Across America, close to 30 percent of the 65 and over, live at home without support, totaling over 11 million, and of these, 71% are female.

That’s a lot of older adults at risk for isolation, a factor of chronic illness. Research examining loneliness says the effects negatively relates to physical activity, mental, and motor function. Strong social connections are central to physical and mental well-being. But it’s a complex issue. When vulnerable older adults have setbacks, they become disconnected and isolated.

Resources

  • Contact the local Area Agency on Aging, you can find them using keyword terms, like “area agency on aging your city.” They offer services and resources of the Area Agency on Aging, Elder Abuse Prevention, Information and Assistance, Legal Services, and Long-term Care Ombudsman. If you want social connection, call your city Parks and Recreation department.
  • ADA (American Disabilities Act) Paratransit provides transportation for those who cannot use the fixed-route public transit system. Each state has it. If you qualify, they will give door to door service in a small bus.
  • Law schools offer free legal assistance to low-income seniors. Or contact you local Area on Aging Department, they can refer you to an elder law attorney.
  • BenefitsCheckUp.org: Quickly find benefit programs that could help you pay for medications, health care, food, and more. All from a reliable and trusted source.
  • Seniorcare.com/directory – has created over 8000 local senior guides that offer healthcare quality ratings, senior housing options and other resources for aging Americans.
0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Age-In-Place

Safety Changes To Help Aging Parents Remain Independent

by Kathy Macaraeg
written by Kathy Macaraeg

When you to visit an aging loved one or parent, keep an eye out for safety issues. Here are some safety updates you can make to their home.

Bathroom Upgrade: My parents recently remodeled their bathroom. They put in a higher toilet, which is easier for them to use and installed a shower stall. They aren’t at a point where they really need these safety upgrades, but they plan to stay in their home as long as possible and opted to make the changes now, versus later. If your aging parent can’t afford a complete renovation, you can still install grab bars next to the toilet and in the shower (some cities have free installation programs so ask your senior center). You can also put down a tub mat to prevent slipping in the tub and make sure that they have a non-stick rug for when they get out of the shower. Consider adding a shower bench or seat to prevent falls. For more bathroom safety items go to Senior.com.

Furniture Upgrades: Upgrading furniture isn’t just about home décor. If your aging parent has had their furniture for a long time, they may need to switch out a few pieces to make it easier to get up. We purchased a tall reclining lift chair for my dad last Christmas because he was struggling to get out of the lower arm chair. I had a former client who had very low furniture so she only sat at her dining room table because she had such a difficult time getting up from her couch. Keep an eye out for signs that your aging parent is struggling to get in or out of their favorite chair. These items from Stander are outstanding help.

Entryway Upgrades: I had a client who had a screen door that wouldn’t open well, then a giant plant that she had to walk around to get to a light that was about 20 steps into her home. For so many reasons, that isn’t safe. She had always had her home that way, so it never occurred to her or anyone else to make her entryway safer. The next time you visit your aging parent, make sure that there is proper lighting at the front door, as well as once they get inside. There also shouldn’t be anything blocking or narrowing their home entrance. These are important changes both for fall safety and home security. Having a dark home entrance makes it really easy for someone to hide and overtake a home owner.

Home Security: Since we’re on home security, some home security areas to address with your aging parent include outside lighting, locking all doors that lead into the home (including garage!) and ensuring their extra house key is well-hidden. These are all safety issues I saw with my clients. Some older adults are energy/cost conscious so they don’t like to leave an outside light on. The problem arises when they come home later than planned or as the time changes and it gets dark later. I also had many clients (and my own dad!) leave at least one door unlocked so that they couldn’t get locked out. Not safe! And finally, I had a client who had her spare key in an envelope labeled “spare key” under her back door mat. Way too easy to find. They should either give a spare key to a trusted neighbor or find one of those hollow rocks to hide the key (but put it far away from their front door!).

General Home Safety: Be sure to do a fall proof walk through your aging parents home, as well as a fire safety check. In addition, look for things like super high (or low) storage. For example, my extra blankets are on a very high shelf. To get them down, I need to get a small step ladder and then pull the blanket bag from the top shelf. It isn’t easy at 41, imagine trying to do that at 85! If there are some things that just need to be stored up high or out of the way, be cognizant of when your parent will need them so you can get it for them. Be sure to keep frequently used items in an easy to access location, even if it isn’t a typical storage space. For example, we keep our crock pot in the linen closet since we don’t use it frequently. That leaves more cabinet space for things I use frequently so that I don’t have to store them in the high shelves that I can’t reach.

If you’re struggling to think of what safety issues your aging parent may have, think of the things you do in a week and try to imagine doing them when you are older or ill. For a wide variety of fall prevention products to help you safely age in your own home, go to Senior.com.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Happy senior couple in kitchen
Age-In-Place

Aging in place: Renovating with independence in mind

by Guest Blogger
written by Guest Blogger

Most Americans settle in a home, envisioning a permanent life refuge. Achieving this vision of aging in place, though, means preparing the home now to anticipate future needs. Doing so successfully can allow older adults to remain independent, autonomous and in charge of their home security as they age.

As many as 94% of today’s older adults (defined as ages 65+) wish to stay in their own homes as long as possible. This group, as of 2010, accounted for 13% of the population (40 million people), and that number is projected to increase to 20% of the population by 2030.

Studies show there are numerous benefits to home-based aging, such as increased life satisfaction, quality of life and self-esteem. Maintaining familiar surroundings and connections is also a benefit, allowing older adults to remain close to friends and neighbors, keep the same doctors and visit favorite coffee shops and grocery stores.

The time is now to start planning for down-the-road needs, like modifying your home to accommodate future accessibility needs, home security and even live-in care. It is important to understand the appropriate renovations that may be required and to equip the home with modifications that are right for you and any caretakers providing attention as you age in place.

What you should know about designing a home while aging in place

Studies confirm there are benefits to keeping older adults in their homes longer, such as maintaining more independence and connection to friends and family, as well as avoiding the high costs of institutional care. Luckily, there are many options, services and helpful solutions available to help us stay independent as we age at home.

Basic home renovations

Improve lighting

Improving the lighting in the home is an inexpensive solution that can provide an increased sense of safety and security for older adults — safeguarding against stumbling and falling, as well as break-ins. Consider adding lighting strips to stairways and other dark areas inside the home, as well as installing exterior lights that can be programmed to turn on and off, creating a pattern to deter break-ins. Nightlights are also a recommended addition — great for hallways, bathrooms and on or near steps.

Add easy-use fixtures and safety considerations

These simple home modifications are easy to implement and can have a significant impact on improving security and comfort in the home as we age:

  • Install oversized light switches ($6 to $28)
  • Replace faucet knobs with levers ($22 to $400)
  • Use automated garage door openers ($128 to $250)
  • Purchase larger digital display options for remote controls, phones, and screens ($7 to $545)
  • Add grab bars or rails around the home to prevent falls and improve mobility ($14 to $100)
  • Consider chair and toilet lifts ($18 – $100)
  • Use cord covers to prevent tripping and falling ($10 to $50)
  • Shop Senior.com for all your Fall Prevention Items for every room ($10-$900)

Update your flooring

Falls are prevalent as we age in what should be our safest environment: our home. And flooring is often the biggest culprit. Loose rugs, slip-inducing mats, and curly edges on carpets are among the most common dangers. Many preventive measures are easy, DIY and often relatively inexpensive. Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Secure rugs throughout the home: Use double-faced, anti-slip rug tape to secure the edges of all area rugs firmly to the floor. Or consider using an underneath rug pad, with options adhering to vinyl, hardwood and other flooring. In the bathroom, use bathmats with a good, surface-gripping backing.
  2. Install anti-slip flooring throughout the home: Ensuring the type of flooring installed in the home (and especially in the bathroom) isn’t slippery is an important consideration for older adults. Some anti-slip flooring options include vinyl, ceramic tiles, and even bamboo.
  3. Contrast for visibility while moving throughout the home: Consider varying the colors and textures of the flooring used throughout the home to provide better visual guidance, especially in transitional areas in the home, such as a sunken living room.

Advanced home renovations

Sophisticated upgrades to help current and future home healthcare needs not only add protection, they often heighten future selling prices. Keep in mind for some of these more advanced home modification tips, outsourcing to a professional may be necessary.

Assistive renovations

Widen your doorways: Even just carrying packages can make doorways impassable, so imagine providing adequate space for assistive devices like wheelchairs. To meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility standards, doorways should be at least 36 inches wide.

Add a stairlift: Unless you’re enjoying single-story living (or unless you have a downstairs bedroom and bath), many people need to navigate stairs in the home. In these cases, stairlifts are a great tool.

Keeping the home secure

Home security systems are an essential tool for being alerted to dangers you may not sense, like fire, carbon monoxide and break-ins. And these tools become even more critical for older adults. According to the National Fire Protection Association, people ages 65+ are twice as likely to be injured or killed by house fires, compared to the rest of the population.

For outside the home, consider installing security cameras, which can allow loved ones to monitor fall-prone areas around the home.

Assistive technology

There is a lot of assistive technology available today, including devices, software programs and equipment that’s specifically designed to help people work around their challenges — from arthritis-friendly light switches and easier-to-grip drawer pulls, to computer voice recognition programs, entryway ramps and more. Here are a few assistive devices for you to consider when updating your home for current or future assistive needs:

  • Clap-detection lights: Turning on lights with the clap of your hands makes turning lights on/off much easier. Plus, set the device in its “away” mode, and your lights will turn on with the detection of any sound, which can deter break-ins.
  • Smart entryway: Assistive tools like key finders, keyless doors and doorbell cameras make entering the home and monitoring activity at the front door easier. Learning who is at the front door from the safety of your couch reduces the need for unnecessary movement around the home, which can also prevent accidents and falls.
  • Home hub automation: Smart home options are now available to provide a one-stop solution for controlling your digital life at home, from programmable temperature controls and sophisticated home security systems to playing music and helping you keep track of appointments. For example, Amazon’s Alexa allows users to easily keep track of daily activities, call their doctor and even order food. And home hub security systems can offer older adults a greater sense of control over the safety of their home and valuables, all from the leisure of their couch.

Why designing with in-home care in mind is a good idea

Considering the high costs of long term care options in the U.S., it’s not surprising people are turning to alternative solutions. Although costs vary by state, let’s take a look at the average monthly costs of some of the more common long-term care options available:

  • A private nursing home room: $8,364 per month
  • A semi-private nursing home room: $7,362 per month
  • Assisted living facility: $3,862 per month
  • Adult day health care: $1,562 per month

To avoid these costs, and if in-home care is your goal, it’s important to start making plans now — so you’re not managing last-minute renovations and home modifications to accommodate the needs of caretakers at the same time your health takes a turn.

Some of the in-home care services you may need to consider planning for include health care aides, registered nurses, physical therapists, social workers and other specialists that make home visits. Your in-home caregiver might also be a companion or a loved one. Regardless of who is providing the care, it’s important to ensure your home is ready, so you can more easily adapt should the need arise.

Renovating your home for the future

When renovating your home, it’s important to keep future health challenges in mind, and the possibility of needing in-home care. Understanding your needs — and the needs of others potentially sharing your space — will create a more harmonious and comfortable environment while aging in place.

Creating a bedroom on the main floor of the home is ideal — allowing for easier accessibility throughout the home. In addition to reducing the use of stairs, main floors also provide faster exits to safety in case of emergencies — like injuries, break-ins or fires.

To accommodate live-in care, or for having loved ones stay, a separate bedroom is an essential consideration. Make sure the room has easy access to a bathroom, and even consider installing a small kitchen.

You’ll also want to equip your home for caregiver accessibility, including:

  • Installing smart locks, so people who take care of you always have access to the home.
  • Ensuring caregivers have access to WiFi, so they’re connected in the event of an emergency, or to purchase necessary items online.
  • Providing caregivers access to security systems, so they can help monitor the home in an emergency.
  • Adding more electrical outlets in the home, in case there is medical equipment to set up in the future.
  • Creating wider doorways and entryways for wheelchairs, as well as ramps for wheelchair accessibility.

Financial assistance for home modifications

Paying for Senior Care outlines four sources of assistance available for those needing to make home modifications to accommodate the needs of older adults and of those with disabilities, including financial loans, grants, labor and equipment loans:

Four types of assistance for home modifications

  1. Low-interest loans: Some organizations, mainly governmental, offer low-interest loans for home modifications or guarantee loans so banks are less restrictive with their lending requirements. Since these are loans, they do need to be paid back.
  2. Home improvement grants: These (usually one-time) grants are available for a specific home modification purpose, and do not need to be repaid.
  3. Free labor: Another form of assistance is free labor to make home improvements. This is commonly offered by non-profit organizations or charities. Materials are not covered. The building of a wheelchair ramp is a common example.
  4. Equipment loans: Some organizations make free, long-term loans of home modification materials. As an example, a portable wheelchair ramp that does not need to be returned until the borrower moves from their home or no longer requires the use of it.

Options for financial planning

There are also several programs and other assistance programs available for qualified individuals to take advantage of to help with home modifications for the purpose of keeping older adults at home longer. Some of the most notable options are:

  1. Medicare Advantage: Beginning in 2019, Medicare Advantage (MA) plans now include benefits for home modifications, such as assisting with the addition of grab bars, stairlifts, and wheelchair ramps in the home
  2. Medicaid HCBS Waivers and Home Modifications: Most states have Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, which help qualified individuals stay at home and receive in-home care and assistance with home modifications. Each state offers different programs with different eligibility requirements and benefits.
  3. Veterans Programs for Home Modifications: The Veterans Administration (VA) offers grants, including Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Grants, Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) Grants and Home Improvement and Structural Alteration (HISA) Grants, to help veterans remain in their homes longer.
  4. Non-Medicaid Government Assistance for Home Modification: The Department of Housing and Urban Development offers HUD Home Improvement Loans, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture offers Rural Repair and Rehabilitation Grants. Additionally, quite a few states offer various assistance programs that are referred to as “nursing home diversion programs,” and some of these programs offer home modification as a benefit. Review this list of state assistance programs that offer home modification benefits to see if there’s a program available for you.
  5. Non-Profit and Foundation Assistance for Home Modifications: Many non-profits and organizations (such as Rebuilding Together) offer financial aid and volunteer labor to help older adults remain in their homes. Another option is finding local, volunteer community resources and projects that may help assist with home modifications.

Set your sights on home sweet home…forever

People are living longer and the percentage of older adults in the U.S. is on the rise. This means there is an increased demand for long-term care solutions. The good news is remaining independent and autonomous in the home you know and love as you age is possible. With the right planning and assistance, older adults can easily make modifications to the home — such as updating the lighting in the home, taking advantage of assistive technologies and even renovating the home to accommodate live-in care. Make these changes now and create a comfortable and safe space that you can continue to call home…forever.

Submitted by Freshome.com

By Wendy Meyeroff, a plain language expert in B2B and B2C health/tech communications, has helped clients across the U.S. for 20+ years with journalism and marketing materials. Wendy has a specialty: writing for and about boomers, and mentoring outreach to ages 50+.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
5 Benefits Installing a Stair Lift
Home Improvements

5 Benefits Installing a Stair Lift

by Guest Blogger
written by Guest Blogger

Are you or one of your family members having trouble getting up and/or down the stairs at home? If your answer is yes, then you may want to consider investing in a stair lift for you home. A stair lift, also often known as a chair lift or stairway lift, is starting to become the most common solution for those who are no longer able to safely navigate the stairs. Most seniors prefer to age at home because of the comfort and security it provides them. Below, you will learn more about the benefits that a stair lift can provide and why it is often the best solution for seniors with limited mobility. 5 Benefits Installing a Stair Lift

Safety – Prevents falls on the stairs

Safety is often the most common reason why people have a stair lift installed in their home. As people age, muscles may weaken, and vision may be reduced, which makes it difficult to safely navigate the stairs. The installation of a stair lift will instantly provide a safe way to access all levels of a home, no matter if the stairs are straight or have turns and curves. Some may think that walking up and down the stairs as a good way to exercise, but that is not true for seniors who have limited mobility. One missed step while climbing up or down a staircase can result in a serious injury. Visiting a local park or gym to walk around the track is a much safer way for seniors to get their exercise in.

Offers Convenience

In addition to increased safety, a stair lift also provides convenience and comfort. After a long day, you may feel tired and don’t feel like climbing up that long set of stairs in your home. A chair lift will give you a safe, relaxing and smooth ride up to the upper level of your home or down to the basement level. If something is forgotten upstairs, you won’t have to worry about how you’re going to find enough strength to climb back up the stairs. You’ll be able to sit in the chair, hold down the switch or button on the arm of the chair and enjoy the nice and easy ride back up the stairs! 5 Benefits Installing a Stair Lift
These lifts are obviously most commonly used by people who need to safely get between the levels of their home. However, stair lifts are also often used to move holiday decorations or laundry baskets up and down the stairs. Some people even use the lift to help transport smaller dogs if they can no longer climb the stairs.

Provides Independence

Everyone enjoys being independent, especially at home. A senior’s independence at home can be challenged for a number of reasons, and a staircase is often the most common one. When the stairs are no longer manageable for seniors, their independence is taken from them. Bedrooms are often moved to the first level and the basement is no longer accessible. However, with the addition of a stair lift, independence can often be restored.

Cost-Effective Aging Solution

There are a few options that a senior has to choose from if their mobility has decreased and they no longer feel safe at home because of the stairs. They can choose to move to senior living, a single-level home, or they can invest in a stair lift. All are viable options and in some cases, one may be more preferred over the other. However, if you are looking for the most cost-efficient solution and want to remain at home, then you should invest in a stair lift. It is much more affordable than moving to a senior living facility ($3,000-$4,000/month), and it will save you the hassle of moving into a new single-level home.

Blends into Your Home

The standard upholstery color offered for most lifts is tan. However, most manufacturers do offer other color choices for the chair upholstery. So, you will be able to pick the color that best matches the design and décor of your own home.

Learn more about how a stair lift can improve your life and allow you to remain at the home you’ve grown to love.

Eric Rubel is a marketing manager for Lifeway Mobility, a company that offers a wide variety of accessibility solutions, such as stair lifts. He writes content for the Lifeway Mobility website and has also had several articles feature on other senior/aging-in-place blogs and websites.

 

5 Benefits Installing a Stair Lift

5 Benefits Installing a Stair Lift 5 Benefits Installing a Stair Lift 5 Benefits Installing a Stair Lift 5 Benefits Installing a Stair Lift 5 Benefits Installing a Stair Lift 5 Benefits Installing a Stair Lift 5 Benefits Installing a Stair Lift 5 Benefits Installing a Stair Lift

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Fall Prevention TipsSafety & Fall Prevention

Top 3 Tips for Fall Prevention

by Kimberly Johnson
written by Kimberly Johnson

Falls can cause serious injuries that take a long time to heal. They can lead to permanent mobility problems that prevent your enjoyment of hobbies and/or limit your ability to drive, shop, cook or bathe. Top 3 Tips for Fall Prevention
Falls are usually the result of spatial orientation miscalculations, dizziness, vision issues, imbalance, poor mobility and/or foot traffic obstacles.

Check Your Health

If you have arthritis, osteoporosis, hypoglycemia, diabetes, blood pressure fluctuation or another condition that can affect your ability to walk, ask your doctor about symptom management methods. If you’re otherwise experiencing symptoms that make you feel like you’re going to fall, see your doctor immediately for an examination. Lastly, ask your doctor or pharmacist about stand-alone and combination medication side effects that can cause falls and any available alternatives. If you have limited options, change lifestyle habits to improve your chances of staying upright.

Stay Physically Active

You’ve probably heard the statement: “If I stop moving, I’m done.”
This attitude is actually good because those words are correct and relevant at any age.
Sedentary behavior causes leg and overall body weakness. It can also cause dizziness by compressing veins and arteries; thereby, stopping the movement of important oxygen-rich blood. Low activity can also damage the nerves responsible for movement and pain management. When these issues occur, they reduce your strength, flexibility, coordination and ability to walk confidently without wobbling, tilting or falling.
Regular physical activities like walking, water workouts or Tai Chi can go a long way toward fall prevention. A physical therapist can help you find the best types of activities to prevent falls based on your health, age and other factors.

Change Home Habits

Your home’s layout and the types of appliances and other items you use can also cause falls.
Move or remove anything that can cause you to slip or trip, such as throw rugs, coffee tables, book piles and umbrella stands, and re-position cords and cables along baseboards. Choose assistive devices that make walking safer like canes and walkers. Glue a non-slip bath mat to the floor of your tub or shower. Additionally, install handrails in places where you walk or rise from a seated position so you have something to grasp if you feel like you’re about to fall.
Some of our favorite products to prevent falls include:

Top 3 Tips for Fall Prevention

Top 3 Tips for Fall Prevention Top 3 Tips for Fall Prevention Top 3 Tips for Fall Prevention Top 3 Tips for Fall Prevention Top 3 Tips for Fall Prevention Top 3 Tips for Fall Prevention Top 3 Tips for Fall Prevention Top 3 Tips for Fall Prevention Top 3 Tips for Fall Prevention Top 3 Tips for Fall Prevention Top 3 Tips for Fall Prevention

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Road accidents 100
Fall Prevention Tips

Medical and Legal Guide for Slip and Fall Accidents

by Guest Blogger
written by Guest Blogger

It’s not possible to predict accidents, no matter how careful you are. Be it a workplace or a senior care home, mistakes happen and they lead to unwanted consequences. Sometimes they are avoidable and sometimes they happen because of negligence on part of the employer or the facility owner.

Even with medical alert systems and best safety practices in place, accidents are a reality of life whether you live at home or a care home. If you become a victim of a slip and fall accident where you sustain injuries, you should know what to do so that you can file a claim for personal injuries. Here are some expert tips to guide you.

Seek treatment

Remember that your health should be your first priority after a trip, slip, or fall. This is especially true if you sustain severe injuries – it is important to go to a doctor to have the injuries properly documented. Remember that these medical records will become important pieces of evidence if you choose to seek compensation for your injuries.

Report and document

Wherever an accident happens, it is important that you report this to the owner, landlord, or manager of the place where it occurred. Make sure to get all of the details of the accident in writing. Also, ask the owner, landlord, or manager to create a written report of the accident and give you a copy.

Write down the names, addresses, email addresses, and contact details of all witnesses. Their statements will greatly help in proving your claim should you decide to proceed with a legal claim.

Take photos of the exact place where your accident happened. Take pictures of icy patches, faulty stairs, and any other conditions that might have contributed to your accident.

Include a brief narrative about what happened before the accident, how you fell, and other significant details along with the exact date and time. Store the clothes and shoes you had on during your accident. You might need them as pieces of evidence in the future.

Know when to file your claim

You should know the laws of your state regarding the Statute of Limitations. This refers to the time limit on how long after an accident has occurred that you have to file a claim. Should you fail to file your claim within the time frame, the court won’t hear your case. As such, you won’t have eligibility for compensation.

The evidence that’s considered admissible in a slip and fall case may vary depending on what type of accident occurred. If you want to file a claim, you must gather evidence like your clothes and shoes, surveillance footage, medical records, photos of your injuries, photos of the dangerous condition or object that caused your accident, an accident report, and witness statements. Organizing these will help you build a solid case to get the financial settlement you deserve.

Hire an attorney

It is highly recommended to seek the services of a personal injury lawyer if you suffered serious injuries caused by a fall, your liability gets disputed, or your case is too complicated. Doing this helps you get the compensation that you deserve from your claim. But if you only sustained minor injuries, it is best to handle your slip and fall claim on your own.

Whichever you decide, remember that you have nothing to lose by consulting with a slip and fall lawyer. These lawyers won’t charge you for first meetings and many of them work on a contingency basis.

A lawyer will help you secure evidence that you cannot get on your own, for instance, using a subpoena to force an entity to provide copies of surveillance films or incident reports. An experienced lawyer will also protect your rights and won’t allow the other party to trick or bully you.

Getting your settlement

Often, compensation for slip and fall injury claims comes from the insurance company of the property owner. As a general rule, business properties are under the coverage of liability insurance whereas accidents at a person’s home are under the coverage of the renter’s or homeowner’s insurance.

Make sure to claim the full cost of your treatment even if it’s paid by health insurance. You also have to include out-of-pocket expenses for bandages, medications, crutches, and other medical equipment. Also, remember that the insurance company will simply give you a check for compensation.

You should always expect a negotiation for a settlement between you or your lawyer and the other party. This negotiation takes experience and time. Although most injury claims get settled out of court, some cases involve filing a lawsuit against the owner of the property if settlement negotiations don’t work out.

Conclusion

The injuries you sustained in a slip and fall accident might heal after a couple of days of rest or they might leave you permanently disabled. This makes it very important for you to learn everything that you can about the injury you sustained and the kind of insurance settlement to expect. To help you out, you need an experienced legal professional who has the resources to help you win your case.

Author Bio:

Jennifer Holland is a professional assignment writer with three years of experience working with online college essay papers sites. She is professionally trained and her brilliant academic record enables her to deliver high-quality assignments consistently. She is currently developing a digital course on writing skills for college students.

 

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts