The great majority of seniors would prefer aging in place, as opposed to making a move to an assisted living facility or nursing home – nearly 9 out of 10 of them, based upon research done by AARP. And who can blame them? The comfort of a familiar environment, the independence to come and go as you want, the opportunity to prepare the meals you want when you want them are all invaluable commodities.
But while it seems like the ideal plan for aging in place, there are some real concerns to be thought through as well:
- Will the older person be safe?
- How will the senior get around if driving, or even walking, gets challenging?
- What happens if the older adult becomes sick or injured and no one’s near to help?
Thankfully, it’s now easier than ever for older adults to stay safe and well at home. These suggestions can assist you in taking the necessary safeguards to ensure your senior loved one is prepared for these needs and any others, now and in the future:
- Assess the home, both indoors and out, from the viewpoint of the older person’s safety. Check to be sure that:
- Grab bars are installed beside the bathtub and toilet.
- Throw rugs and any other fall hazards are removed.
- There is adequate lighting, including in hallways and stairways.
- Frequently used items are stored within easy reach.
- Emergency numbers are posted in a highly visible location.
- Create a transportation plan, so it’s ready to put into action when driving is no longer possible:
- Research public transportation options that are available and easily accessible.
- Set up a volunteer tree of trustworthy people the senior can turn to for transportation when needed: friends, relatives, neighbors, religious organizations, local senior centers, Effraim Home Care, etc.
- Make sure the older person is able to access the technology that can be used in an emergency to obtain help when alone, such as a PERS (personal emergency response system).
The ideal way to ensure older adults stay safe and well cared for at home, however, is by engaging the services of a trusted home care agency, such as Effraim Home Care. Our care experts are trained and have experience in providing personal care services, transportation, meal preparation, and companionship, and are here for you for as much or as little care as the senior needs.
We begin by creating an individualized plan of care to address the older person’s distinct needs and wishes, and then we regularly monitor that plan and make adjustments as needs change – making certain that the senior stays safe and is able to live life to the fullest, where it is most comfortable: at home.
We invite you to reach out to us at (215) 826-7422 to learn more about our Abington home care and senior care services offered in other nearby areas. For more information on all of the areas we serve throughout Pennsylvania, please visit our Locations Served page.
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