June is National Safety Awareness Month so this is the perfect time to make safety a number one priority. Safety is a big concern among senior citizen.As they get older, they become more vulnerable to safety hazards in and outside of the home. From slipping and falling to changes in the weather. It’s important to take the necessary precautions to avoid a mishap that could further lead to a serious injury.
Seniors and their loved ones should consider taking sometime this month to analyze their space and habits to ensure that they are practicing safety measures.
Here are some things to consider for enhanced safety:
Indoor Safety
- Slipping and falling is a common occurrence in rooms such as the bathroom, so consider installing handrails and chairs in the shower and other bathroom areas.
- Avoid using rugs that do not lay flat as the flared sides may cause a fall.
- Consider downsizing furniture and other possession to avoid a cluttered home which creates a risk for falls.
Outdoor Safety
- Avoid extreme heat. The sun is the most intense between 10:00 am- 4:00 pm. If possible, limit outdoor activity to the morning and evening.
- The best clothing to wear in the summer is loose fitting clothing in natural breathable fabric like cotton.
- Dehydration can be a serious threat to seniors, drink an appropriate amount of water. Avoid over-indulge on alcohol and caffeinated drinks.
Safety matters and should be treated as a priority; prevention is better than cure.
For more information on safety measure, visit the links below.
National Safety Council: http://www.nsc.org/act/events/Pages/national-safety-month