Senior citizens living alone in Pennsylvania face many challenges that younger people may not even think about. For most of us, our home is the safest space in our lives – but for the elderly, the home can be a hot spot of risks for slips, falls, and other dangers. If your loved one lives alone, be sure to watch out for the most common causes of injury for the elderly, which include:
- Falls on the stairs. One of the most hazardous areas in the home for older Americans is the staircase. One-third of the senior population of America will fall this year, and of that population, 1.6 million people will be hospitalized for fall-related injuries. Many senior citizens can be afraid of their stairs following a fall, and may limit themselves to the lower levels of their home; this can greatly limit their sense of freedom and independence. Companies providing stairlifts in Philadelphia can help to keep your loved one safe. As your loved ones get older, the risk for falls on the stairs can greatly increase. If your loved one is over the age of 65, stair lifts in Philadelphia can become a necessity for safety.
- Slips in the tub. The bathroom is the most dangerous room for older Americans because the slippery floor creates an instant hazard almost every day. Many older adults find themselves falling in their bathtubs after a shower, and may have trouble helping themselves off the floor – this can lead to damages to muscle and other issues following extended compression. A shower safety bar is an inexpensive way to keep your loved one safer.
- Forgetting needed medication. As we get older, our memory can start to slip away. Many older adults living alone find themselves forgetting to take their medications, which can cause serious lapses in health. If your loved one frequently forgets to take his or her medication, setting up a daily pill organizer can help to encourage them to remember necessary medication every day.
By watching out for these causes of injury, you can help bring safety and independence back into your life or the life of a loved one. To learn more about our stairlifts and other independent living solutions, contact us at 800-603-0830.
