According to the Institute on Aging, older adults who are living outside of a retirement community make up nearly one-third of America’s population. That is 11.3 million people. Additionally, over the past ten years, there has been an increase in this particular age group living alone. Due to this trend, safety has become a bigger issue. If you are a family member of an older adult who is living alone, BLC is here to provide support, education and resources on ways to keep them safe. Here are some things to consider:

FALL PREVENTION: 

  • Talk to a healthcare provider about a personalized falls risk assessment. 
  • Consider an age-appropriate exercise program.
  • Purchase a medic alert alarm which can be worn as a bracelet or necklace. 
  • Wear well fitting footwear with a non-slip bottom. 
  • Use a cane or walker as prescribed by a Physician or Physical Therapist.

SAFETY PROOFING: 

  • Hallways, stairs, and baths should be well lit and clear of objects.
  • Install rails and banisters for added ease of taking stairs. 
  • Remove all loose rugs from inside and outside the home or apartment.
  • Set the water temperature to no higher than 120° F to prevent scalding.
  • Install grab bars in the shower and near the toilet to make getting around safer. 
  • Purchase a shower chair, bench or raised toilet seat to help prevent falls in the bathroom/shower.

MEDICATION SAFETY:

  • Keep all medications in their original containers.
  • Ask the pharmacist to put large-print labels on all medications.
  • Bring all pill bottles to physician’s appointments to determine if they are still needed and also to help prevent drug interactions.

SELF PROTECTION:  

  • Keep the windows and doors locked at all times. 
  • Never let a stranger in the home when alone. 
  • Do not share personal information such as social security numbers, credit card and/or bank information, or account passwords.
  • Place a list of emergency numbers in a wallet or purse, as well as next to each phone. 

There are many additional topics aimed at keeping our elderly population safe. 

Please join us on August 14 at 1:00 p.m. for a “Senior Perspectives” workshop focusing on “Safety In The Home.” The event will be held at both BLC Campuses; “The Seasons @ Alexandria” Grand Dining Room and at “The Village @ Erlanger”  Long House Grand Dining Room (a light lunch will be served at both locations).

Our Guest Speaker will be: Becky Poe, PTA
Market Program Director, Rehab Care/Baptist Life Communities

For more information, please contact:

Ray Coates
Director of Pastoral Services
rcoates@blcnky.com

To RSVP contact: 
Lynda Schunder at (859) 653-6495

sources: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/topics/home-safety

https://business.facebook.com/events/338407596840123/